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Blazers Facing Uncertain Future with Billups Case Looming
Questions remain about Damian Lillard's return, playoff chances, and coaching situation
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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The Portland Trail Blazers are facing a number of uncertainties heading into the final stretch of the NBA season and beyond. With head coach Chauncey Billups facing a trial in September, the team's leadership is in limbo. There are also questions about when star player Damian Lillard will return from an Achilles injury and what he will look like when he does. The Blazers are currently on the playoff bubble, but have a soft remaining schedule that could help them secure a spot in the postseason.
Why it matters
The Blazers' future is clouded by the unresolved Billups situation, Lillard's health, and the team's playoff hopes. The organization and fans are left in a state of uncertainty as they try to plan for next season and beyond.
The details
Billups, the Blazers' head coach for the past four seasons, was arrested last fall and is facing a trial in September. The team cannot fire him without risking a lawsuit, and it is nearly impossible to envision him returning even if he is exonerated. Interim coach Tiago Splitter may leave for another team if the situation drags on. As for Lillard, he is expected to miss the rest of this season as he recovers from a torn Achilles, but his return next year at age 36 raises questions about his defensive abilities and overall impact. The Blazers are currently on the playoff bubble, but have a favorable remaining schedule that could help them secure a spot in the postseason.
- The Billups trial is expected to begin in September 2026.
- Damian Lillard is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 NBA season.
The players
Chauncey Billups
The Portland Trail Blazers' head coach for the past four seasons, who was arrested last fall and is facing a trial in September 2026.
Damian Lillard
The star point guard of the Portland Trail Blazers, who is currently recovering from a torn Achilles injury and is expected to miss the remainder of the 2025-26 season.
Tiago Splitter
The interim head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers, who may leave the team if the Billups situation drags on.
What’s next
The judge in the Chauncey Billups case will decide in September 2026 whether to allow him to return as the Blazers' head coach.
The takeaway
The Blazers' future is mired in uncertainty, with the unresolved Billups situation, Damian Lillard's health, and the team's playoff hopes all up in the air. The organization and fans face a challenging period as they try to navigate these issues and plan for the team's long-term success.
