JUST IN: Spurs Have Completed and Announced The Signing Of Former Bucks Star Guard Damian Lillard In Free Agency To a 3- Years Contract

Damian Lillard has become a free agent for the first time in his career.

The Milwaukee Bucks startled the basketball world on Tuesday when they waived the veteran star guard, ending his two-season collaboration with Giannis Antetokounmpo. In both 2024 and ’25, the Antetokounmpo-Lillard tandem failed to go past the first round of the NBA playoffs. The Bucks will now pay him the remaining $113 million over the next five years as he hunts for a new basketball home.

It will be fascinating to see what Lillard’s market is like. The 34-year-old veteran ruptured his Achilles tendon during the Bucks’ brief playoff run in April, and he will miss at least the majority, if not all, of the 2025-26 season.

Any team that contracts Lillard this offseason is probably thinking ahead two years to the 2026-27 season. He’ll be 36 when the season starts. And Lillard would most likely prefer to join a contending team in order to pursue the elusive NBA championship.

Which teams would be a good fit for Lillard?

Miami Heat

The Heat have been trying to sign a superstar since LeBron James chose them in “The Decision.” Lillard isn’t the all-world scorer he once was, but he was chosen an All-Star last season and averaged 24.9 points per game.

Before being traded to the Bucks in October 2023, it was believed that Miami was one of Lillard’s chosen destinations. Is this still true after less than two years?

San Antonio Spurs

Before being traded to the Bucks in October 2023, it was believed that Miami was one of Lillard’s chosen destinations. Is this still true after less than two years?

The Spurs parted ways with veteran point guard Chris Paul this offseason. With De’Aaron Fox entering the final year of his contract in 2025-26, Lillard would offer the Spurs with point guard insurance if the former Sacramento Kings star does not re-sign with the team for 2026 and beyond.

Furthermore, another complete season with Victor Wembanyama with Devin Vassell, Stephon Castle, and No. 2 choice Dylan Harper in 2024-25 should prepare the Spurs to compete for a championship in ’26.