3 years agoPortland Trail Blazers point guard Damian Lillard (abdominal) is not expected to take the floor again in 2021-22 after having previously undergone abdominal surgery back in January. There had initially been optimism that Lillard could return at the conclusion of the year, but Portland has taken its roster in a different direction, which has allowed their franchise star time to heal up. Across 29 games this year, Lillard averaged 24 points, 7.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, all while shooting a career-low 32.4 percent from deep. Anfernee Simons (quad) had enjoyed a breakout campaign in Lillard's absence, but injuries have set him back as well. For now, Brandon Williams figures to continue getting sizable run, while Josh Hart operates as the team's primary scoring option most nights.--Jesse Borek
Source: Shams Charania