The Golden State Warriors fell short of a storybook ending this season, but a new chapter could be on the horizon. With Damian Lillard suddenly available after his release from the Milwaukee Bucks, speculation is swirling about where the Oakland native might land next. Golden State is emerging as a serious contender, and the idea of a hometown hero returning has fans buzzing about what could come next for the franchise.
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Could Damian Lillard Return Home? Warriors Among Top Suitors
Right now, talk of Lillard joining the Warriors is just speculation, but the fit and the narrative are hard to ignore. According to PFSN’s Bjorn Bergstrom, Golden State stands out as a top destination for the veteran guard.
Lillard, who grew up in Oakland and idolized the Warriors, is a free agent for the first time in his career after two challenging seasons in Milwaukee. The 34-year-old suffered an Achilles tear during the postseason and is expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2025-26 campaign. Despite this setback, his name remains at the center of free agency rumors.
Golden State recently made a bold move to maximize what remains of Stephen Curry’s prime by trading for Jimmy Butler at the deadline and keeping defensive stalwart Draymond Green in the mix. The trio found chemistry, but Curry’s injury in the second round of the playoffs ended any hopes of a deep postseason run.
“However, adding another star in Lillard could further raise their ceiling and give them another explosive scorer. Alongside Curry, the two would arguably form the greatest shooting backcourt in league history, closely rivaled by Curry and former Warriors guard Klay Thompson,” Bergstrom wrote.
Even with his recent injury, Lillard’s 2024-25 numbers (24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game) show his value as a top-tier shot creator. If he returns to form, pairing him with Curry would instantly create one of the most exciting backcourts the league has seen in years.
Looking Ahead: Lillard’s Recovery and Golden State’s Long-Term Plans
This move would not be about a quick fix. Lillard is focused on his rehabilitation, and ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Jamal Collier report that he is in no rush to sign a new deal. His plan is to take 12 to 18 months to recover before deciding on his next team.
That approach could work well for Golden State. The Warriors do not need Lillard immediately; what they need is a long-term plan to stay competitive as Curry ages. If Lillard’s next contract is about more than just money, the move could offer both sides a chance to shape the final chapters of two legendary careers.
Lillard has been active on social media but has made it clear he is not in a hurry. “A man in tune with himself don’t move fast… he moves correct,” he reposted on Instagram shortly after news of his release.
For now, patience and planning seem to be the focus for both Lillard and the Warriors as the NBA world waits to see what comes next.