After a year on the sidelines due to injury, Portland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard is primed to make his long-awaited return to the NBA. Lillard, who missed the entire 2025-26 season after suffering a torn left Achilles tendon, has recently showcased his exceptional shooting skills during team practices. In a remarkable display, Lillard hit 1,100 out of 1,168 shots, boasting an impressive shooting percentage of 94.2%. His ability to shoot with pinpoint accuracy has fan excitement at fever pitch as the new season approaches.
Damian Lillard is widely regarded as one of the NBA's premier clutch shooters, known for his remarkable ability to sink critical shots during high-pressure moments. His skillset includes a limitless shooting range, which has been instrumental in establishing himself as a dominant scorer throughout his career. With nine All-Star Game appearances and seven selections to the All-NBA teams, Lillard's accolades suggest a cocktail of talent and perseverance that hints at a future enshrinement in the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Lillard's Stellar Career Highlights
The former Weber State star has carved out a noteworthy career in the league. Over 13 regular seasons, Lillard has become a household name, averaging an impressive 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game. His sharpshooting skills are showcased by his remarkable three-point shooting ability—he has made a staggering 2,804 shots from beyond the arc in the regular season, coupled with 222 more in playoff scenarios, bringing his total to 3,026.
A New Chapter in Portland
Following two seasons with the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard is returning to the Blazers, the franchise with which he has spent the majority of his career. This return signifies stability and continuity for a player determined to reignite his sparks after his injury. Furthermore, Lillard will share the backcourt with Ja Morant, another high-profile player looking to make his own comeback following challenges in recent seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies. The pairing of Lillard and Morant presents an intriguing dynamic for the Blazers, as the duo aims to harness their extensive talents to propel the team forward.
Blazers' Season Outlook
As the Blazers gear up to kick off the 2026-27 season with a matchup against the Phoenix Suns on October 21, Lillard’s performance will undoubtedly be under the spotlight. The preseason has given him the chance to shake off the rust and find his rhythm, and early reports indicate that he is more than ready to contribute at a high level.
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Lillard's return impacts the team's performance and overall chemistry on the court. The new backcourt, coupled with Lillard's clutch shooting ability, raises expectations for the Trail Blazers this season, and his presence is expected to make a significant difference.
The Road Ahead
As the NBA prepares to dive into another action-packed season, all eyes will be on Damian Lillard as he navigates the landscape of professional basketball post-injury. His history of excellence and resilience paints a promising picture of what he will bring back to the Blazers and the league. The excitement surrounding Lillard's return is palpable, providing the Blazers and their fanbase with renewed hope for success as they embark on a new chapter in the franchise's history.
As October 21 nears, the anticipation for Lillard's performance will continue to grow. The basketball world is ready to witness if Lillard can reclaim his spot among the elite players in the NBA and lead the Trail Blazers toward a hopeful postseason run.
