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May 30, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; NBA player Damian Lillard sits courtside during the Las Vegas Aces and Los Angeles Sparks game at Michelob Ultra Arena. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

Trio Of Contenders Emerge As Favorites To Land Damian Lillard

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Frederick Okocha | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 10:41 AM ET

PORTLAND – Damian Lillard’s stunning departure from the Milwaukee Bucks has shifted the NBA landscape overnight. For the first time in his career, the superstar guard sits on the open market. As fans and insiders debate Danian Lillard’s next move, three teams have emerged as favorites: the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, and Golden State Warriors. The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, Sam Amick, and Joe Vardon reported that the Lakers and Celtics want to sign Lillard “sooner rather than later.” ESPN’s Marc J. Spears confirmed the Warriors also “reached out” immediately after Lillard’s release.

Trio Of Contenders Emerge As Favorites To Land Damian Lillard

Bucks’ Gamble Leaves Lillard in Limbo

Milwaukee had limited options when free agency began. To free up space, the Bucks made the boldest move possible. They waived Lillard using the stretch provision, spreading his massive $113 million contract over five years. The team must pay him $22.5 million each year — even though he will not play for them.

With this drastic step, the Bucks signed Myles Turner to a four-year, $107 million deal. The move signals Milwaukee’s commitment to giving Giannis Antetokounmpo more help. But the jury remains out on whether the gamble works.

Injury Clouds Lillard’s Immediate Future

Feb 10, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) takes a shot between Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski (2) and forward Draymond Green (23) in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Lillard’s future is not clear. He tore his Achilles in Game 4 against Indiana on April 27. That setback might sideline him for most of the 2025-26 season. Spears shared on NBA Today that “speculation” suggests a possible return around the All-Star break.

Yet ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Jamal Collier noted that many around the league expect Lillard will not sign anywhere this season. If he does ink a deal, insiders believe it may be a two-year pact since teams won’t get full value right away.

Still, Damian Lillard’s favorites remain undeterred. The interest from Los Angeles, Boston, and Golden State isn’t a surprise because all three teams want upgrades but have limited flexibility.

Why The Lakers, Celtics, And Warriors Want Lillard

Each of these contenders believes they can revive their championship dreams with Lillard — even if they wait for him to heal. His shooting range and clutch scoring make him a dream fit for any playoff hopeful.

The Warriors hold a sentimental edge. Lillard grew up near Oakland, which could make Golden State an ideal landing spot. A reunion with the Bay Area might appeal to a star who spent years battling the Warriors as a rival.

Meanwhile, the Lakers and Celtics each see Lillard as a piece that can push them deeper into playoff contention. Every team wants more shooting. Lillard, healthy, can score from anywhere on the court.

Money Won’t Be The Obstacle

Lillard’s unusual situation could benefit his suitors. Milwaukee still owes him his full salary, so any new contract likely comes cheap. The Warriors, Lakers, or Celtics could offer a short-term deal without blowing up their cap.

All three of Damian Lillard’s favorites face tax and apron constraints that limit big signings. This loophole gives them a rare chance to add an All-NBA talent for a fraction of the price.

A Waiting Game For Everyone

Right now, the NBA waits. Will Lillard sign this summer? Or will he rest, rehab, and weigh his options closer to the All-Star break?

His camp has not made any definitive statement. His next move might depend on which of the favorites offer the clearest path to a ring for Damian Lillard.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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