Damian Lillard's go-ahead 25-foot jumper with 43.1 seconds left in a 136-129 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday was more than just a clutch shot; it was a powerful statement of resilience. This moment, 'Dame Time,' symbolized his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon that sidelined him for the entire previous season and his subsequent trade from the Milwaukee Bucks.
Lillard, who tore his Achilles in April 2025 during the Bucks' playoff series against the Pacers, faced what he described as the lowest point in his career. Shortly after, he was unexpectedly waived by Milwaukee, leaving him uncertain about his future in the league. "That I am who I think I am," Lillard told The Post exclusively, reflecting on his mindset during this challenging period. "Not as far as status, but the way that I operate, how I answer the call. I rise to whatever comes my way. It just showed me that’s really who I am."
The veteran guard's journey back has been fraught with adversity. After requesting a trade from the Portland Trail Blazers, where he played for 11 years, Lillard was dealt to the Bucks in September 2023, a move that surprised him. Despite the unexpected destination, he embraced the opportunity to play alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo on a championship-contending team.
However, the Bucks' championship aspirations were derailed by injuries. Antetokounmpo missed playoff games in both the 2024 and 2025 postseasons. The 2025 playoffs ended prematurely for Lillard himself when he sustained the Achilles tear in Game 4 against the Pacers. The injury, notorious for altering careers, raised concerns about his future performance.
"Never a moment I thought that," Lillard stated when asked if he worried about returning as a lesser player. Despite the career-threatening injury and the uncertainty of his contract status after being waived by the Bucks with two years and $113 million remaining, Lillard never lost faith in himself.
His career came full circle when, after 2 ½ weeks as a free agent, he re-signed with the Trail Blazers, returning to his home team. This season, Lillard has proven his doubters wrong, averaging 21.7 points on 45.2% shooting from the field and a career-high 42.9% from beyond the arc for the undefeated Trail Blazers (3-0).
"Pretty much every time he shoots, I think it’s good," said teammate Ja Morant. "I’m pretty much bracing for a celebration every time he shoots. But in the fourth quarter, I’m for sure doing it."
The Trail Blazers have also bolstered their roster in the offseason, adding Morant to a lineup that includes Jrue Holiday, All-Star Deni Avdija, Scoot Henderson, Donovan Clingan, and Toumani Camara. This strong start and revamped roster suggest Lillard may have another opportunity to compete for his first championship. He is healthy, reunited with his children, and performing at a high level, making his recent clutch shot a significant marker of his remarkable comeback.
"It’s not like I was looking forward to a Dame Time moment," Lillard added. "I’m prepared. I’m prepared to do what I’ve got to do. I just want to keep building. I know those moments are going to come. I know those opportunities are going to come. It’s just a matter of me being ready for it."