Damian Lillard returned to the Portland Trail Blazers for the 2026 training camp following a season-long absence due to a torn Achilles tendon. His return coincides with a significant roster overhaul, including the arrival of Ja Morant via trade and the hiring of head coach Micah Nori to lead a team managing a $600 million arena renovation proposal.
Portland’s Roster Dynamics Following the Morant Trade
General manager Joe Cronin faces the challenge of balancing a guard-heavy rotation after acquiring two-time All-Star Ja Morant from the Memphis Grizzlies in late June. The trade, which sent Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to Memphis, leaves the Blazers with a backcourt featuring Morant, Lillard, Jrue Holiday, and Scoot Henderson.
Cronin acknowledged the need to manage roles and ball distribution among the group. Despite questions regarding positional balance, the front office maintains that the team lacks a major deficit in other areas. For his part, Morant stated that he sought a fresh start to move past the public scrutiny he faced during his time in Memphis.
Damian Lillard’s Return to the Trail Blazers
Lillard, 36, enters the season after a year of rehabilitation. Having previously spent 11 seasons in Portland before a two-year tenure with the Milwaukee Bucks, Lillard rejoined the team last summer. He indicated a shift in his approach, noting that he does not intend to log the heavy minutes that defined his earlier career.
Lillard expressed optimism regarding the team’s chemistry, specifically praising Morant’s character. He emphasized that the focus for the upcoming season remains on responding to the challenges and criticisms that accompany professional sports journeys.
Leadership Changes and Organizational Turbulence
The coaching staff has undergone changes since last season. Tiago Splitter, who served as head coach following a promotion, departed for the Chicago Bulls this summer. His replacement, Micah Nori, arrives from the Minnesota Timberwolves. Nori described his transition to the head coaching role as an experience comparable to "Christmas Eve."
The organization continues to operate against a backdrop of staff reductions, with more than 70 employees laid off during the offseason. Tom Dundon has emerged as the primary face of the new ownership group, taking a visible role following the team’s first playoff appearance in five years.
Status of the Moda Center Renovation Negotiations
The future of the team’s home venue remains uncertain as management negotiates with the city over a $600 million project to renovate the Moda Center. While the state has committed $365 million in funding, the remaining balance relies on the city’s approval.
Team President Dewayne Hankins stated that the organization is meeting with city officials twice weekly to reach an agreement. A new lease must be finalized by December to move forward with the renovations of the arena, which is the league’s oldest arena.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding the 2026 Trail Blazers
Who is the current head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers? Micah Nori is the head coach. He was hired after the departure of Tiago Splitter, who left to join the Chicago Bulls.
Why was Damian Lillard sidelined for the previous season? Lillard missed the entire previous season due to a torn Achilles tendon.
What is the current status of the Moda Center renovation project? The project requires city approval for a portion of the $600 million budget. The state has already pledged $365 million, and team officials are in weekly talks with the city to meet a December lease agreement deadline.
Which players were involved in the trade for Ja Morant? The Blazers traded Jerami Grant and Kris Murray to the Memphis Grizzlies in exchange for Morant.
When does the Trail Blazers’ regular season begin? The team opens its regular season on Oct. 21 with a home game against the Phoenix Suns.