Lillard was a first-round pick in 2012 for the Trail Blazers and won Rookie of the Year before helping the franchise to eight playoff appearances over the next 11 seasons. He spent two years of teaming up with Giannis Antetokounmpo in Milwaukee before choosing to come home to the West Coast.

After losing in the first round for the third straight year and seeing All-Star Damian Lillard tear his Achilles after fighting to return to the floor, the Bucks knew they had to make some uncomfortable decisions. The main goal of the offseason was to stay competitive in the East and keep Giannis Antetokounmpo happy.

Milwaukee Bucks executive reflects on Damian Lillard’s return to the Portland Trail Blazers, calling the move difficult but necessary.