Apr 27, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Indiana Pacers center Myles Turner (33) takes a shot against Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) and forward Kyle Kuzma (18) in the first quarter during game four of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images / Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

While Lillard's recovery timetable is a lengthy one—the average recovery period for NBA players with Achilles tears is roughly 10 months, putting Lillard's return date around February 2026—there's still optimism he could return toward the tail end of next season and be ready to make an impact in the playoffs.