Damian Lillard and Tyrese Haliburton made impactful returns from Achilles injuries, giving Portland and Indiana an immediate boost. Lillard is embracing a shared offensive role with the Trail Blazers, while Haliburton delivered a clutch fourth quarter in the Pacers’ win. The Clippers also dedicated a victory to suspended owner Steve Ballmer, who was penalized in the NBA’s salary-cap circumvention case involving Kawhi Leonard.

By the Numbers
  • Lillard scored 25 points and hit 6 three-pointers in 23 minutes.
  • Portland beat Phoenix 124-83.
  • Haliburton had 23 points and 12 assists, including 16 points in the fourth quarter.
  • Indiana beat New Orleans 123-120; the Pacers went 19-63 while Haliburton missed last season.
  • The Clippers beat Sacramento 121-96; Ballmer’s penalties included a $30 million fine and the loss of 5 first-round picks.
Yes, But

Lillard’s return was a strong start, but his role has changed: Portland has other players who can create offense, and he welcomes sharing responsibility. The Clippers’ win came amid a major organizational controversy, with Ballmer serving a season-long suspension after the NBA’s findings.

State of Play
  • Lillard says studying the Blazers during his rehabilitation helped him understand how to contribute as a leader and teammate.
  • Haliburton’s game-winning three-point play offered an immediate reminder of his value to Indiana.
  • The Clippers are entering a challenging stretch against the Lakers twice, plus the Thunder, Timberwolves, Warriors and Raptors.
What's Next

Portland will look to build around Lillard’s return without asking him to carry the offense alone. Indiana will see whether Haliburton can sustain his impact as he works back into regular-season play, while the Clippers face a demanding run of games under the cloud of Ballmer’s suspension.

Bottom Line

Both returning stars showed how much they can change a team’s outlook; Portland’s challenge is to keep Lillard’s workload sustainable, while Indiana hopes Haliburton’s clutch return signals a faster recovery to form.