Overview
- Portland listed Lillard as out for Tuesday’s Game 5 due to left Achilles tendon injury management on the official NBA injury report.
- The Trail Blazers trail the Spurs 3–1 and must win three straight games to advance in the playoffs.
- A report from The Oregonian said a team source described Lillard as close and kept open a possible return later in the postseason if Portland extends the series.
- Lillard is the only Trail Blazer on the Game 5 injury report, so the rest of the roster is available.
- Medical guidance says Achilles tears often need 8 to 12 months before a safe return, which helps explain Portland’s caution with the 35-year-old who has not played this season.