In a stunning move that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Portland Trail Blazers have parted ways with their franchise icon, Damian Lillard. The former Trail Blazers superstar is now set to don the Milwaukee Bucks jersey, setting the stage for a dynamic partnership with reigning NBA Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The trade, which was confirmed by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, marks the end of an era in Portland. Damian Lillard, who was drafted as the No. 6 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, spent an illustrious 11 seasons with the Trail Blazers. During his tenure, Lillard etched his name in the annals of basketball history, earning seven All-Star selections and seven All-NBA selections. He consistently delivered for Portland, boasting impressive averages of 25.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Lillard’s time in Portland was the team’s playoff success. The Trail Blazers made eight consecutive playoff appearances, with the pinnacle being their journey to the Western Conference Finals in 2019. Damian Lillard’s leadership and clutch performances endeared him to fans, making him the franchise’s all-time leader in various statistical categories, including points and 3-pointers made.
The trade to Milwaukee presents Damian Lillard with a golden opportunity to vie for an NBA championship alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks’ star player and two-time league MVP. The prospect of these two superstars joining forces has generated immense excitement and speculation within the basketball community.
While details of the trade, including the assets involved, are yet to be disclosed fully, the impact of this move extends far beyond the court. It signifies a significant shift in the NBA landscape, with perennial contenders like the Bucks strengthening their roster to maintain their championship aspirations.
Damian Lillard trade details
Bucks receive:
- Damian Lillard
Trail Blazers receive:
- Jrue Holiday
- Deandre Ayton
- Toumani Camara
- 2029 unprotected first-round pick
- 2028 unprotected swap rights
- 2030 unprotected swap rights
Suns receive:
- Jusuf Nurkic
- Grayson Allen
- Nassir Little
- Keon Johnson
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski broke the news that Lillard is going to the Bucks in a three-team trade.
In return, the Trail Blazers will receive Jrue Holiday from the Bucks and Deandre Ayton from the Suns as part of the deal. Phoenix will land Jusuf Nurkic, Grayson Allen, Nassir Little and Keon Johnson.
The Trail Blazers will also receive a first-round pick from the Bucks and swap rights in 2028 and 2030.
Damian Lillard contract details
In 2022, Lillard signed a two-year, $122 million extension with the Trail Blazers that includes a $63.2 million player option for the 2026-27 season.
If Lillard picks up his player option, he will be an unrestricted free agent in the 2027 offseason.
| Season | Salary |
| 2022-23 | $42,492,492 |
| 2023-24 | $45,640,084 |
| 2024-25 | $48,787,676 |
| 2025-26 | $58,545,211 |
| 2026-27 | $63,228,828 (PO) |
| 2027-28 | UFA |
According to Spotrac, Lillard’s career earnings will increase to $449.9 million at the end of his current contract.
As fans eagerly await further information regarding this blockbuster trade, one thing remains certain: Damian Lillard’s departure from Portland marks the end of an era but also ushers in a new chapter in his storied career. The NBA landscape has shifted, and the upcoming season promises to be one filled with intrigue as Lillard and Antetokounmpo team up in pursuit of basketball glory.
