The Portland Trail Blazers are very much in their first round playoff series against the San Antonio Spurs. If they can hold out long enough, there is at least a small chance that a big boost might be around the corner.
The Blazers have not completely ruled out the chances of Lillard playing in the playoffs this year, according to Bill Oram of The Oregonian. While still a long shot, a source told Oram not to rule anything out “or get too excited about anything.”
Lillard is one year removed from the Achilles tear that he suffered in last year’s postseason. At no point has he been expected to play this year, though the Blazers’ X account did share some video of him working out recently.
— Portland Trail Blazers (@trailblazers) April 22, 2026
Lillard is far enough along in his recovery that we know he can shoot, albeit in an uncontested environment. An NBA playoff game is an entirely different animal, but it does make sense that the team has not completely shut the door on the possibility of him playing.
The Blazers were given little chance in their Western Conference quarterfinal against the Spurs, but managed a split on the road. Still, their chances could hinge on whether San Antonio will have Victor Wembanyama going forward.
