Damian Lillard’s return to Portland has the NBA buzzing—and Dallas Mavericks fans asking the big question: could Luka Dončić one day return home too?
Damian Lillard is officially coming home. The seven-time All-Star is finalizing a three-year, $42 million contract to return to the Portland Trail Blazers—a stunning twist in a career that saw him traded to Milwaukee just two seasons ago.
The deal reportedly includes a player option for the 2027–28 season and a no-trade clause, signaling that this reunion is more than symbolic—it’s a commitment to finish what he started in Rip City.
“RipCityyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!” Lillard exclaimed on Instagram, confirming what many fans thought was impossible just a year ago.
His return, however, is doing more than tug at heartstrings in Oregon. It’s sparking conversation in Dallas, where fans are beginning to wonder: Could Luka Dončić follow a similar path?
Dončić, the Mavericks’ franchise cornerstone for nearly seven seasons, was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in February 2025 in a shocking blockbuster deal. Alongside Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, Luka was sent to L.A. in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a future first-round pick. The move was met with confusion and outrage, especially since Luka had not been informed beforehand.
When he returned to American Airlines Center on April 9 in a Lakers jersey, emotions ran high. Dončić poured in 45 points and received a lengthy standing ovation from a fanbase still healing from the trade. He left the court visibly emotional.
Former teammate Naji Marshall captured the sentiment:
“Luka’s my dawg… I just was hurt to lose Luka, man.”
While Lillard’s return to Portland felt inevitable, Luka’s path is far less specific. He still has one year left on his Lakers contract and a $48.9 million player option for the 2026 season. Multiple reports indicate he’s expected to sign a max extension to remain in Los Angeles, where the front office has fully committed to building around him.
Meanwhile, Dallas is charting a new course. The Mavericks selected Cooper Flagg with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft and are focusing on youth, development, and a long-term vision. Although the city misses Luka, the franchise appears ready to move on.
Still, Lillard’s emotional return proves that in the NBA, anything is possible. Fans never stop hoping. Cities never stop loving their stars.
But for a Dončić reunion in Dallas, the ball is in Luka’s court—and his alone.
Category: Basketball
