However implausible it may seem, the franchise has not completely ruled out the possibility that Damian Lillard could make a surprise appearance in the postseason this year, multiple sources said. Obviously, the longer its run lasts, the more realistic such a long-shot scenario becomes. “I wouldn’t rule anything out,” a source said, “or get too excited about anything.” Monday will mark one year since Lillard tore his Achilles tendon in Game 4 of Milwaukee’s first-round playoff series against Indiana. That was 13 days before Jayson Tatum, who returned to play on March 6, tore his Achilles tendon.

This article originally appeared on Hoops Hype: Damian Lillard returning before the playoffs end?