In a summer already defined by seismic NBA shifts, the Golden State Warriors have emerged as a surprise suitor for nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard, according to multiple league insiders. The news comes just hours after the Milwaukee Bucks stunned the basketball world by waiving Lillard, stretching the $113 million remaining on his contract, and effectively making him the most coveted free agent of the offseason.
A Homecoming Years in the Making
Lillard, 34, is a Bay Area native who grew up idolizing the Warriors, sneaking into Oracle Arena as a kid and dreaming of one day wearing the blue and gold. Now, with his future entirely in his own hands, the prospect of returning home is more real than ever. “This is a guy that grew up going to games at Oracle Arena, sneaking into the media room, getting sodas. Grew up a Warriors fan. That’s interesting,” ESPN’s Marc J. Spears noted.
The $200 Million Question
Sources indicate the Warriors are prepared to make an aggressive play, with speculation swirling about a potential $200 million commitment—a figure that would include both salary and luxury tax ramifications over a multi-year deal. While Lillard’s recent Achilles tear means he’ll likely miss most or all of the 2025-26 season, Golden State appears willing to bet big on his recovery and long-term impact. The financial gamble would be massive, especially for a franchise already deep into the luxury tax, but the Warriors’ ownership has never shied away from spending to chase championships.
Basketball Fit: Electric, Risky, Unprecedented
On the court, a healthy Lillard alongside Stephen Curry would create arguably the most dynamic backcourt in NBA history—a pairing of two of the league’s most prolific shooters and clutch performers. Add in Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, and the Warriors would boast a veteran core with championship pedigree and relentless competitive fire. Yet, questions abound: Can two ball-dominant guards coexist at this stage of their careers? Will Lillard regain his All-NBA form after a devastating injury? And can Golden State’s defense withstand the strain of a Curry-Lillard pairing?
The Human Element: Legacy and Loyalty
For Lillard, this moment is about more than money. After years of loyalty to Portland and a turbulent stint in Milwaukee, he finally has the freedom to choose his destiny. A championship ring is the last missing piece in his Hall of Fame résumé. “He’s certainly financially secure enough to take whatever minimum contract the Warriors want to give him,” one analyst noted, but the Warriors’ rumored willingness to go far above the minimum signals a belief that Lillard can be the final piece of another title run.
Obstacles and Uncertainties
Despite the mutual interest, there are hurdles. Lillard’s Achilles injury is a major red flag for any suitor. The Warriors’ cap situation is already precarious, and a $200 million investment would push them into historic tax territory. There’s also the matter of fit—Lillard himself has previously expressed reluctance to join the Warriors, saying in 2023, “That’s home. But I can’t be a part of that… Like what I look like going to try to do that and say oh I’m joining my home team. Like no… I lose every year before I go”.
But circumstances have changed. Lillard is now 35, the window for a championship is closing, and Golden State offers a unique blend of homecoming, legacy, and winning opportunity.
What’s Next?
As free agency unfolds, all eyes will be on the Bay Area. Will the Warriors go all-in on Lillard, risking $200 million for one last shot at glory? Or will the realities of age, injury, and cap constraints force both sides to look elsewhere? One thing is certain: Damian Lillard’s next move could redefine the NBA landscape—and the Warriors are ready to make their pitch