Damian Lillard won’t be suiting up for the Trail Blazers this season-but that doesn’t mean he’s disappearing from the spotlight entirely.
The nine-time NBA All-Star is still on the mend from an Achilles tear he suffered late last season while with the Milwaukee Bucks. And while he hasn’t logged a single minute for Portland this year, he’s making a surprise appearance at All-Star Weekend-specifically, in the 3-Point Contest.
At first glance, that might raise a few eyebrows. If Lillard’s healthy enough to shoot threes under the bright lights, could he be close to returning to game action? Not quite.
Lillard made it clear: this is not a comeback tour. He’s not rushing his recovery, and he won’t be playing again this season. The 3-Point Contest, which he’s won twice before (2023 and 2024), is simply a low-impact way for him to stay connected to the game-and to the fans-without jeopardizing his long-term health.
“I can feel it,” Lillard said, speaking to The Athletic. “I’m on the court every day… but I want to make sure I’m 1,000 percent and that I can play every year for the rest of my career as the best version of myself.
So, I’m not in a hurry, especially knowing that I’ve got time. That’s the game I’m playing.”
That’s the veteran mindset talking. Lillard isn’t chasing headlines or trying to prove anything in February.
He’s looking ahead-way ahead-to make sure his next chapter isn’t just a return, but a sustained one. At 33, and with a heavy workload behind him, he knows the value of patience.
He’s not 24 anymore, and he’s not pretending to be.
His decision to participate in the 3-Point Contest is more about presence than performance. All-Star Weekend has always been about star power, and Lillard’s name still carries weight. Even if he’s not lacing up for the main event, his presence adds legitimacy to the festivities-and gives fans a taste of what they’ve been missing this season.
So no, don’t expect a Trail Blazers comeback after the break. But do expect to see Lillard on the court next season, fully healthy and ready to remind everyone why he’s one of the best shooters-and fiercest competitors-of his generation.
Until then, enjoy the show on Saturday night. Even if it’s just a few rounds of long-range fire, it’s still Dame Time.