“Damian Lillard 2025 ๐จ | Injury Blow, Bucks Exit & Free Agency Rumors Explode”
๐จ Damian Lillard 2025 | Injury, Waived by Bucks & What's Next?

Damian Lillard, a 9-time NBA All-Star and one of the league’s premier point guards, has had a roller-coaster 2025—marked by injury, a surprising waive by the Bucks, and major free agency speculation. Let's break down his journey, stats, current status, and what's next for this superstar. ๐
1. ๐ฉบ Season-Altering Injury
In Game 4 of the first-round playoff series vs the Pacers, Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon—already delayed due to a blood clot in his calf earlier in the postseason :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. This injury is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2025‑26 season.
2. ๐ Waived by the Bucks
- On July 1, 2025, the Bucks waived Lillard and stretched his remaining $113M contract over five years to sign Myles Turner :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.
- Lillard will continue to receive his salary (~$22.5M/year) despite being a free agent :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
- The move reportedly upset Giannis Antetokounmpo, though he’s supportive of the new frontcourt alignment with Turner :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
3. ๐งฎ Career Snapshot & Achievements
- NBA career averages (900 games): 25.1 PPG, 6.7 APG, 4.3 RPG — 43.9% FG, 37.1% 3P :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
- Rookie of the Year (2012‑13), 9× All-Star, 7× All-NBA selection, 2× All-Star Skills Challenge winner :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Career-high 71 points vs Rockets in 2023—the oldest player to reach 70+ in a game :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
4. ๐ Free Agency Buzz & Landing Spots
Despite injury, Lillard is reportedly "elated" to be a free agent, giving him flexibility and time to rehab :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}. Teams like the Miami Heat and Golden State Warriors are reportedly interested :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
5. ๐ What It Means for Team & Legacy
- Bucks cleared cap space for Turner and other roster moves :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
- Lillard can rehab without pressure, aiming for a 2026‑27 return with a contending team.
- Despite defensive concerns and injury, he remains one of the NBA’s elite scorers and clutch performers.
๐ Final Thoughts
Damian Lillard remains one of the most electrifying and resilient players in NBA history. Facing a long rehab, he now has the freedom to choose his next path. Whether he joins Miami, returns to Portland, or finds a new home, the basketball world is watching. ๐ฅ
๐ฌ What team do you want to see Dame play for next? Comment below and share this post! ๐
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