Damian Lillard Returns as Blazers' Best Player Amid Ja Morant Bench Talk

Damian Lillard is set to return to the Portland Trail Blazers lineup this season as the franchise’s best player, but new head coach Micah Nori just dropped a major hint about Ja Morant’s role.

What did the new coach say?

Micah Nori, the Trail Blazers’ new head coach, suggested Ja Morant will likely come off the bench this season. Speaking to SiriusXM Radio, Nori emphasized that Morant’s willingness to accept a bench role factored into Portland’s decision to trade for him this offseason.

Nori told reporters: “Well, I don’t know. I take people at their word, so my thing is that if it has to come to that, well, hey, you said you didn’t care, number one. The second thing is I really believe is that guys like Ja, guys like Dame (Lillard), guys like Jrue (Holiday) who have been around, they want to win. And winning is the most important thing.”

Why Damian Lillard matters now

Lillard’s return is a massive storyline for Portland. The six-time All-Star remains the team’s all-time leading scorer and still owns elite shooting range. After missing significant time last season, his presence could stabilize an offense led by Deni Avdija, who earned his first All-Star nod in 2025-26.

Nori’s comments underscore the logistical challenges ahead. The Blazers now boast four guards-Lillard, Morant, Avdija, and Jrue Holiday-all vying for minutes. Nori stressed that role clarity isn’t urgent yet, noting training camp will sort it out.

The bigger offseason questions

Portland’s offseason has been chaotic. New owner Tom Dundon faces scrutiny over spending habits, and Nori signed only a one-year deal-a potential make-or-break moment for his tenure. The Western Conference isn’t getting any easier, with Denver, Oklahoma City, and Golden State all flexing deeper rosters.

Lillard’s return adds firepower, but the Blazers must answer tough questions. Can Morant thrive in a supporting role? Will the young core-Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, and others-take the next step? And can Nori navigate the locker room’s mix of stars and egos?

What comes next?

Training camp looms as the first real test. Nori’s approach to rotations will define early narratives, especially with Morant’s trade reshaping Portland’s guard hierarchy. Lillard, meanwhile, remains the face of the franchise-a role he’s held since 2012.

For now, the Blazers’ biggest story isn’t just who starts. It’s whether this collection of talent can finally click.