In a stunning move that sent shockwaves through the NBA, the Milwaukee Bucks released star player Damian Lillard after a serious Achilles tendon injury ruled him out for the 2025-26 season. To fill the void, the Bucks added Myles Turner to their roster, but Lillard’s absence looms large. Head Coach Doc Rivers addressed the situation publicly, shedding light on the franchise’s difficult decision.
“He’s (Damian Lillard) done everything right throughout his career. He’s done everything that a franchise can ask for if you’re trying to win. So he did all the good stuff for us. Obviously, we weren’t going to have him this year with the injury. But you don’t just lose a player, you lose a person. That’s a tough loss for your franchise,” Doc Rivers expressed in the postgame interview of a NBA Summer League game.
Damian Lillard undeniably ranked among the franchise’s most pivotal players, sharing the spotlight with Giannis Antetokounmpo. His departure reportedly unsettled the Greek star, especially as Lillard had been in peak form before his injury. This season, he averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game.
In addition to his individual brilliance, the veteran established an exceptional offensive partnership with Giannis Antetokounmpo. This dynamic duo’s absence will undoubtedly challenge Milwaukee moving forward. Although Damian Lillard reportedly felt elated by his release, he now faces the opportunity to choose his next NBA destination, a first in his career.
Bucks’ Damian Lillard suffered an Achilles tendon injury and underwent surgery in early May.
NBA veteran Paul George weighs in on Damian Lillard’s future
Damian Lillard’s future remains a hot topic in the NBA. At 34, his stint with the Milwaukee Bucks has piqued interest from several teams. The Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors lead the chase for the 2026-27 season, with the Miami Heat also reportedly entering the race. Meanwhile, Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George hints that another franchise might suit Lillard even better.
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“Put him with Houston (Rockets)… You put him on that team where there is a KD, there’s defense around him. There’s length around him. If it’s a smaller guard, pair him with length around him,” Paul George said, via Podcast P. His potential arrival in the 2026-27 season could seamlessly integrate into a squad boasting both elite defense and offense. Despite speculation, there has not been any reported interest from Houston yet.
Even if some experts view Lillard’s injury as a limitation, yet his upcoming free agency has drawn considerable interest due to his rumored willingness to accept a pay cut. This comes after securing a $113 million severance package, to be paid over five years. Nonetheless, his desire to play closer to home might influence which franchises emerge as serious contenders in the months ahead.
