Damian Lillard returning before the playoffs end?

TL;DR

Damian Lillard's potential return for the playoffs is not ruled out by the franchise, despite being officially sidelined. His recovery plan remains a priority, with the focus on next season.

Key points

Damian Lillard's return for the playoffs is not ruled out.
He tore his Achilles tendon last year.
Tiago Splitter confirmed Lillard is focused on next season.
Lillard has been officially ruled out for the playoffs.

Mentioned in this story

Tiago Splitter

Damian LillardPortland Trail Blazers

However implausible it may seem, the franchise has not completely ruled out the possibility that Damian Lillard could make a surprise appearance in the postseason this year, multiple sources said. Obviously, the longer its run lasts, the more realistic such a long-shot scenario becomes. “I wouldn’t rule anything out,” a source said, “or get too excited about anything.” Monday will mark one year since Lillard tore his Achilles tendon in Game 4 of Milwaukee’s first-round playoff series against Indiana. That was 13 days before Jayson Tatum, who returned to play on March 6, tore his Achilles tendon.

Oregonian

More on Damian Lillard: Recent HoopsHype Rumors

Sean Highkin: Damian Lillard is officially ruled out for Game 3 tomorrow, despite what some social media posts may have led people to believe. — 4/23/2026 x.com

Sean Highkin: Tiago Splitter did not outright say Damian Lillard won’t play in the playoffs (his answer to a yes/no question was “probably not”) but reiterated that Lillard has a plan for his recovery that they’re sticking to. Since July the messaging has been that he’s not playing this year. — 4/23/2026 x.com

Sean Highkin: Tiago Splitter five days ago at practice before Game 1, asked if there's a chance Dame could play in the playoffs: — 4/22/2026

Q&A

Is Damian Lillard expected to play in the playoffs this year?

No, Damian Lillard has been officially ruled out for the playoffs, but the franchise has not completely dismissed the possibility of a surprise return.

What injury did Damian Lillard suffer last year?

Damian Lillard tore his Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against Indiana.

What did Tiago Splitter say about Lillard's recovery plan?

Tiago Splitter stated that Lillard has a recovery plan that they are committed to following, emphasizing that he is focused on next season.

When did Damian Lillard last play before his injury?

Damian Lillard last played on April 24, 2025, before suffering his Achilles tendon injury.