Dame Lillard is returning home, but this time he’ll be armed with a no-trade clause.
Lillard has agreed to a 3-year, $45M deal with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Not only does the deal include a no-trade clause, but it also features a player option for the 2027-28 season.
Lillard is expected to miss the 2025-26 season.
It has been reported that several teams, including Boston and Golden State, had interest but were unable to seal the deal.
The Trail Blazers’ roster appears ready to make a turn towards becoming a playoff team.
Portland acquired Jrue Holiday in the offseason.
Other Key Parts of the Roster:
Shaedon Sharpe, Toumani Camara, Deni Avdija, Donovan Clingan, Scoot Henderson, Jerami Grant, Robert Williams III, Yang Hansen, and Matisse Thybulle.
Next Moves:
It will be interesting to see if Portland keeps Robert Williams III and Matisse Thybulle. Both Williams III and Thybulle will be unrestricted free agents in 2026-27.
Portland will need to see improvements from Henderson, and Clingan needs to continue to grow on the floor.
Keep an eye on Avdija. He brings a skill set that could be a key piece for a contender. When Avdija signed an extension in Washington, his yearly salary decreases each season.
If Portland wants to keep him as part of their future, it is a bargain for the organization.
