Damian Lillard is officially back in a Portland Trail Blazers jersey, and after dropping 44 points and eight assists across his first two games this 2026-27 season, he just delivered a massive truth bomb on his two-year run with the Milwaukee Bucks: “It wasn’t my home.” Talk about a statement coming off a huge scoring night!
The Milwaukee Experiment Was Wild, But Never Home
Remember that blockbuster swap in September 2023 that sent Dame to Milwaukee? Everyone, and I mean *everyone*, thought it was title-or-bust. The Bucks were only two years removed from a championship, and pairing Dame with a two-time MVP like Giannis Antetokounmpo felt like an instant dynasty in the making. They even started the 2023-24 season looking strong, kicking off with a 30-13 record. But then things got weird. Head coach Adrian Griffin got fired, Doc Rivers came in, and Milwaukee struggled. Still, they pushed to the playoffs with a 49-33 record. What happened next? Giannis was out with a calf injury, and they were bounced in the first round. Tough break, right?
Injuries and An Exit: The End of The Bucks Era
The following season, the Bucks clinched another playoff spot, finishing 48-34. You’d think with a full year under their belt, things would click. Nope. Lillard himself suffered a torn Achilles, shutting him down for the postseason. Another first-round exit. That Achilles injury meant Lillard missed the entire 2025-26 season while recovering. The Bucks then waived the nine-time All-Star during the ensuing offseason. He wasn’t on the market long, though, before signing a three-year, $42 million contract to come right back to the Trail Blazers, the team where he became a franchise icon and their all-time leading scorer for 11 seasons. It just goes to show, some connections run deeper than championship expectations.
Lillard’s been able to suit up this year, healthy and ready to roll for Portland. Coming back from a torn Achilles is no joke, but 44 points and eight assists in his first two outings? That’s the kind of performance that makes you wonder what else he’s got cooking for the Blazers. He’s clearly got a chip on his shoulder, and that “It wasn’t my home” comment proves he’s all about where he truly belongs now. Get ready, because Dame Time is clearly back.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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