Trail Blazers' Damian Lillard Confirms Achilles Injury Sidelining 2025-26 Season

Damian Lillard has officially announced that he will not play in the 2025-26 NBA season due to recovering from a torn Achilles tendon suffered while playing for the Milwaukee Bucks last season. Despite his absence on the court, Lillard remains committed to the Portland Trail Blazers, emphasizing the importance of his health and expressing confidence in the team's potential success without him. At 35, Lillard understands the severity of his injury and the need to avoid rushing his recovery, aiming to return only when fully ready. Meanwhile, Robert Williams III of the Blazers is still sidelined with knee issues and has not been cleared for contact, facing uncertainty due to the team's depth at the big man position and his ongoing health challenges. Both players' situations highlight the Blazers' ongoing struggles with injuries to key players as they prepare for the upcoming season. Portland fans are hopeful for Lillard's eventual return, appreciating his leadership and history with the franchise even as the team manages his absence.