Damian Lillard, 34-year-old Milwaukee Bucks guard, suffered an Achilles injury during Game 4 on Sunday, forcing him to re-enter the recovery process after being sidelined due to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis in March. The classic result of an Achilles tear is often described as feeling like someone kicked the back of the leg, causing sudden pain and pop.
Lillard’s age and sport make him more susceptible to Achilles injuries, particularly with repetitive jumping, running, and push-off/pivot maneuvers placing load on the tendon. His recent DVT diagnosis further increases his risk category, as treatment often focuses on blood thinners and rest.
Upon returning from an injury, athletes typically undergo a reconditioning process, which can vary depending on factors such as the nature of the injury, time away from competition, and sport-specific demands. In Lillard’s case, the exact timing of his return to play is uncertain, but he will soon undergo surgery followed by a controlled return to mobility.
Return-to-play timelines for athletes vary greatly, with NBA players averaging 10 months of recovery. However, some specific player comparisons can provide insight into Lillard’s road back. Kobe Bryant returned from an Achilles injury at age 34 in 2013, but lacked explosiveness. Klay Thompson recovered from a torn Achilles while recovering from an ACL in 2021, averaging fewer minutes and shooting efficiency. Kevin Durant, on the other hand, signed with the Brooklyn Nets during his recovery, demonstrating confidence in his ability to return at an elite level.
While statistics show that most athletes do not regain pre-injury performance levels upon return, Lillard’s individual experience will be unique. With proper rehabilitation and a well-structured training plan, he can look forward to a successful comeback in the 2025-26 season.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/44919882/damian-lillard-achilles-tear-bucks-star-faces-recovery