Damian Lillard: ‘I’m Not an Old Man’

Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard addressed his minutes plan on Monday, stating that managing his playing time is about being smart rather than a decline in his fitness, joking, "I'm not an old man." After missing the 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury, the 36-year-old explained that Portland's guard depth will allow him to preserve his body for the postseason while taking on an expanded off-ball role.

Head coach Micah Nori confirmed plans to implement a 10-man rotation to keep players energized, a strategy veteran guard Jrue Holiday praised. The practice session also focused on defensive rebounding concerns raised by center Robert Williams III, which Nori emphasized through dedicated drill work ahead of Wednesday's season opener.