Damian Lillard’s participation in the 3-point shooting contest during the 2026 NBA All-Star weekend in Los Angeles continues to make the headlines.
It was the most unexpected development after the All-Star guard was ruled out of the season rehabbing a torn Achilles during the first round of the playoffs last year. Playing for the Bucks, Lillard was injured in Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers.
Damian Lillard Drops Key Update on When He Will Return to the Floor
Speaking to The Athletic’s Jason Quick, Damian Lillard offered a key, but cryptic update on his return to the court as his rehabilitation progresses. “I can do a lot, that’s where I’ll put it,” Lillard remarked.
“I’m running my own race,” the Portland Trail Blazers star added. “If I were 23, 24, 25, I probably would be more (competitive) about who is doing what, but I know where I am physically. I can feel it. I’m on the court every day, and to me, it’s not about what (Jayson Tatum) is doing.”
Damian Lillard on how his rehab is progressing
“I can do a lot, that’s where I’ll put it.”
(https://t.co/QXUm63isIZ) pic.twitter.com/aMaVBymYRf
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) February 11, 2026
Lillard’s comments come amid reports of the likes of Tatum’s aggressive rehab and return to the floor after his disastrous Achilles injury. “After the season, I’m going into a full summer to get ready for next season, and I want to make sure that I’m 1,000 percent and that I can play every year for the rest of my career as the best version of myself. So, I’m not in a hurry, especially knowing that I’ve got time. That’s the game I’m playing.”
Having the decorated veteran take part in the contest also comes as a major boost for the ASG weekend activities. Lillard has already won the event twice and will face stiff competition from the selected field this time. It remains to be seen if he can win the contest for the third time and equal legend Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as the only three-time victors.
Other big names taking part are Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers), Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets), Norman Powell (Miami Heat), Jamal Murray (Denver Nuggets), and Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks).
Lillard is yet to lace up for the Blazers this season after he was stretched and waived by the Bucks last Summer. The Trail Blazers signed him back for a three-year, $45 million deal. The seasoned guard spent just two seasons with the Bucks.
As for the All-Star festivities, this will mark the second straight year California serves as host of the marquee weekend, after San Francisco last year.
