Damian Lillard’s journey with the Milwaukee Bucks took an unexpected turn just as NBA free agency kicked off. To everybody’s surprise, the Bucks decided to waive Lillard after they signed center Myles Turner.
This move surprised a lot of people, especially since so much focus was on how Giannis Antetokounmpo would shape the team’s future this summer. And there were no rumors whatsoever that linked Dame outside of Milwaukee anytime soon.
But as things stand, the nine-time NBA All-Star is out of the equation now. Lillard is currently recovering from a torn Achilles tendon. He suffered the gruesome injury during the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs against the Indiana Pacers.
However, recent reports hint there was some tension between Lillard and the Bucks that led to his release. According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, Lillard’s agent, Aaron Goodwin, reached out to the Bucks about a month ago.
People within the Bucks organization did not approve Damian Lillard’s request to return home to Portland to be with his kids while he rehabs his Achilles injury, per @ChrisBHaynes
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 2, 2025
(🎥 @NBATV / h/t @ohnohedidnt24 )
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He informed the franchise that Lillard wanted to rehab back home in Portland, where he could be close to his kids. However, it seems some folks within the organization weren’t on board with that plan, leading to a bit of a standoff.
Once he was waived, Lillard expressed relief and happiness about the situation. Interestingly, when he initially requested a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023, Milwaukee wasn’t exactly at the top of his list.
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Now, with the chance to choose his next team as he focuses on recovery, Lillard is looking at options that will make the most sense for his future.
Damian Lillard Might Have One Hot Landing Spot
While the prediction for him to sit out this season to nurse his torn Achilles tendon, rumors have him linked to a hot landing spot.
According to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, one team that stands out as a promising fit for Lillard is the Minnesota Timberwolves. During a segment on NBA Today, Spears expressed excitement at the thought of Lillard pairing up with rising star Anthony Edwards in the backcourt.
The idea of having Lillard’s elite shooting skills to complement Edwards’ versatility could really make sense for the Timberwolves. The Wolves have struggled to find consistency at the point guard position since drafting Edwards first overall in 2020.
And if the speculation works out, the dynamic duo could be just what Minnesota needs to push them deep into the playoffs.
While the Timberwolves are a strong contender, there are also other teams in the mix for Lillard’s services, including his former team, the Portland Trail Blazers.
Despite the setback, it would be an exciting offseason for Dame to look up to.
Also Read: REPORT: Three Dominant Frontrunners Emerge To Land Damian Lillard “Sooner Rather Than Later”
