In a shocking turn of events, Damian Lillard emerged as one of the more interesting names on the free agent market this summer. Following his decision on the next chapter of his career, the All-Star guard received praise from a former Chicago Bulls standout.
Earlier this month, the Milwaukee Bucks decided to waive-and-stretch Lillard to open up cap space to sign veteran big man Myles Turner. Though he is set to miss a majority of the 2026 season due to an Achilles injury, numerous teams still expressed interest in signing him. The Lillard sweepstakes came to an end earlier this week, as he decided to ink a multi-year deal to return to the Portland Trail Blazers.
Lillard is widely regarded as one of the top players in the franchise's history, spending the first 11 years of his career in Portland. Instead of opting to ring chase on a contender, Lillard is back with the Blazers in what could be a storybook ending to his playing days.
One of the main reasons why Lillard opted to sign with Portland was to be closer to his children. This move was applauded by many, including Hall of Fame guard Dwyane Wade. The ex-Bulls star took to X to give his thoughts on the situation.
Dame Dolla back where he should be! @trailblazers got it right 👏🏾
— DWade (@DwyaneWade) July 17, 2025
Wade knows all about a homecoming, as he had one of his own during his playing career. After an extended run with the Miami Heat, the superstar guard opted to sign with the Bulls in 2017. Wade's stint for his hometown team would end up being brief, as he spent just one season with the franchise.
Now back with the Blazers, Lillard will attempt to return to his old self during his injury rehab in hopes of being a leader for the promising young roster.