M.A.: Before deciding to return to the Trail Blazers, Lillard had seriously considered two teams

On July 19, according to US media reporter Sam Amico, as the team Lillard had previously named to go to, the Heat have not provided Lillard with any form of offer recently because they are unwilling to pay Lillard a year's salary (used to recuperate) for whom the Achilles tendon has suffered a major injury.

It is worth mentioning that another US media reporter Shams learned that since Lillard resumed his free agent status (cut off by the Bucks), at least 12 NBA teams have extended olive branches to Lillard.

And before making the final decision, in addition to the Trail Blazers, he also seriously considered two teams: the Timberwolves and the Celtics.

Celtics are because of Tatum's recruitment, while the Timberwolves are because of their current lineup.

But in the end, in order to spare more time to spend with his family, Lillard decided to return to his old boss, the Portland Trail Blazers.

In the 2024-25 season, Lillard averaged 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game, shooting percentage of 44.8% and three-point shooting percentage of 37.6%. In the 2025-26 season, Lillard is not expected to play, and he will use this full season to focus on Achilles tendon recovery.