Damian Lillard’s Future: Can He Lead Portland After Achilles Injury?

By Edcel Panganiban August 06, 2025 09:33

Damian Lillard's future as a leader for the Portland Trail Blazers is now under intense scrutiny following his devastating Achilles tendon injury sustained during the 2025 NBA playoffs. Lillard, a nine-time All-Star and cornerstone player for Portland, ruptured his left Achilles tendon in Game 4 of Milwaukee Bucks’ first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, effectively ending his season and putting his 2025-26 campaign in jeopardy. At age 34, this injury represents a significant challenge given the demanding recovery timeline and the importance of Achilles integrity for an explosive guard known for his agility and scoring prowess.

Before joining the Bucks in 2025, Lillard had re-signed a three-year deal to return to the Trail Blazers amid a season marred by injuries, including hamstring, groin, and calf issues. Despite these setbacks, when healthy, he maintained strong production, averaging around 29 points, 7 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. His presence has been pivotal to Portland’s identity, a player capable of both electrifying offense and leadership under pressure.

The Achilles injury occurred soon after Lillard’s remarkable return from a deep vein thrombosis diagnosis in his right calf earlier that season. Although he fought to contribute during the playoffs, his performance was limited, culminating in the severe tendon rupture which required surgery. The Milwaukee Bucks waived Lillard during free agency, facilitating his move back to Portland where he is set to spend the offseason focusing on rehabilitation.

Recovery from an Achilles tear can be variable, especially for players in their 30s. Modern medical and training advances have enabled several elite athletes to return to high-level performance post-injury, though full recovery typically takes 9 to 12 months or longer. This includes progressive mobility work, strengthening, and cautious reintroduction of explosive basketball movements to avoid overstretching the tendon repair. Lillard’s determination and previous resilience in overcoming injuries lend hope to the Blazers and their fans that he can regain his elite form.

Portland's head coach Chauncey Billups has expressed cautious optimism about Lillard’s ability to lead upon his return, emphasizing patience in rehab but underscoring Lillard's status as the franchise centerpiece. “Damian is one of the greatest competitors we’ve had, and we trust his work ethic and passion to come back stronger,” Billups remarked recently. Lillard himself has conveyed enthusiasm about being “back home” with Portland and is focused on the long-term goal of returning to the court in top form.

Given Lillard’s historical importance to the Trail Blazers both statistically and culturally his leadership will be critical in the transition phase as the team navigates his rehab period and beyond. While the 2025-26 season will almost certainly be a recovery year, Lillard’s presence in the locker room and his influence on younger players remain valuable intangibles.

Statistically, before the injury, Lillard ranked 10th in the NBA in scoring (24.9 points per game) and 9th in assists (7.1 per game), reaffirming his role as an offensive catalyst. If he can recover fully, his combination of scoring, playmaking, and clutch performances could re-energize Portland’s playoff aspirations.

While Damian Lillard faces a daunting road to recovery from his Achilles injury, his track record of resilience, combined with cutting-edge rehabilitation protocols and a supportive environment in Portland, bodes well for his potential to lead the Trail Blazers again. The 2025-26 season will be one of rehabilitation and gradual return, but the expectation remains that Lillard’s competitive fire and skill set can eventually restore him to his status as one of the premier leaders in the NBA.