On Tuesday, July 1, 2025, the NBA world was stunned by major news from the Milwaukee Bucks. After a third-straight First Round playoff exit, the Bucks faced pressure to make dramatic changes to keep their two-time MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo, satisfied.
The solution they found was unexpected: waiving superstar point guard Damian Lillard while he recovers from a torn Achilles. Despite the surprising move, Lillard is reportedly excited about his future, and the league is buzzing about what comes next for one of its most respected stars.
Where Does Damian Lillard Go Next?
Throughout the 2010s, Lillard was known for his loyalty to the Portland Trail Blazers. He spent years trying to keep the team competitive before finally accepting a trade. That move sent him to Milwaukee, where he teamed up with Antetokounmpo, widely considered one of the best players in the world. Their partnership, however, did not produce the seamless chemistry many expected, and results on the court were disappointing.
With the Bucks’ decision to waive Lillard and stretch his contract over five years, the nine-time All-Star now has a rare chance to reset his career. According to league sources, Lillard is elated by the situation, as it allows him to focus on basketball and choose his next team without worrying about money. The Athletic reported that Lillard is in a unique position, able to join any contending team he prefers, either soon or next summer.
League sources tell @sam_amick that Damian Lillard is elated with the Bucks’ decision to waive and stretch his contract 👀
Milwaukee’s decision puts Lillard in the kind of basketball-first position that few All-Star level players, if any, have experienced in league history.… pic.twitter.com/h4x4n5KmZz
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) July 1, 2025
Lillard’s freedom is due to the waiver, which guarantees he will receive every dollar of his $112.6 million contract over the next two seasons, with payments stretched over five years. This means he can focus on his recovery and join a new team as a productive player, though he is expected to miss the 2025-26 season due to injury. Teams have already reached out to Lillard, with several contenders calling him quickly after the news broke.
The timing of Lillard’s decision is important. He can choose to join a new team this summer, or wait another year before making a move in a league that is always changing. Either way, the opportunity is there for Lillard to pick the best fit for his skills and priorities.
One notable detail from The Athletic’s report is that Lillard and the Bucks were headed for a split regardless of the waiver. On-court chemistry issues and the challenge of being away from his children made it clear that Lillard’s time in Milwaukee was limited. With the entire league now open to him, Lillard can make the most of his remaining years in the NBA while he recovers from his injury.
