Damian Lillard just dropped a practice stat that should have the entire league on notice: 1,100 makes out of 1,168 shot attempts. That’s a mind-bending 94% from a guy who hasn’t stepped on an NBA court for a game in well over a year, and his new teammate Ja Morant saw it, reacting with the simple, hype-inducing comment, “this gon be funnnnn.” You better believe it, Ja.
Dame’s Shocking Return and What It Means
Lillard’s incredible shooting session is a sign that Dame Time might be back and ticking stronger than ever. Remember, he hasn’t played an NBA game since April 27, 2025. That’s when he tore his Achilles in Game 4 of a first-round playoff series with the Milwaukee Bucks against the Indiana Pacers. Just over a month later, the Bucks surprisingly waived him, leaving a massive $113 million remaining on his contract. Nobody saw that coming. But that move opened the door for Lillard to return to the Portland Trail Blazers, the team where he became one of this generation’s best players over 11 years. It’s a fresh start for a legend who was unexpectedly cast aside, and if this practice performance is any indication, he’s coming back with a vengeance.
The Backcourt Chemistry That’s Ready to Explode
Now, add Ja Morant into the mix, acquired in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, and you’ve got an intriguing backcourt duo brewing in Portland. Lillard and Morant together on the floor? That’s a scary thought for opposing defenses, assuming they can stay healthy. The fact they’ve combined to play just 128 games over the past two seasons is the only red flag, but if they click, this backcourt could be electric. The Blazers are building something seriously fascinating, with a roster that also boasts Jrue Holiday and Scoot Henderson sharing backcourt duties.
Portland’s Stacked Roster Faces a Monster Challenge
But it’s not just the guards getting attention. This Blazers team has one of the most intriguing rosters in the NBA right now. Deni Avdija is coming off a breakout season that earned him an All-Star nod, and Donovan Clingan proved to be one of the league’s best rebounders and rim protectors last season. All these pieces suggest a team that absolutely could be very good. However, the Western Conference is a beast. They’re going to face a difficult test, playing in a conference that’s home to arguably the two best teams in the NBA: the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Can this revamped Blazers squad, with a re-energized Lillard and a hyped-up Morant, prove they belong? We’re about to find out, and honestly, we can’t wait to see if Lillard’s practice fire translates to game day. It’s going to be a wild ride.
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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