Blazers haven’t ruled out Damian Lillard playoff return, eyeing Giannis push

This one sounds a little wild at first. But this is the NBA, so maybe not entirely impossible.

According to Bill Oram of The Oregonian, the Trail Blazers haven’t completely ruled out the idea of Damian Lillard making a surprise return during the playoffs.

Yes, these playoffs.

Lillard hasn’t played all season after tearing his left Achilles last April. So we’re talking about a serious long shot. Still, multiple sources told Oram that a return is “not impossible,” with one describing Lillard as “close.”

The key? Time. The deeper the Blazers go, the more realistic it becomes. And as of now, they’re still in it, trailing the  Spurs 2-1 in the first round.

So you’re saying there’s a chance. And that’s not all.

Portland, per the report, is also preparing to make a run at Bucks super-duper star Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason. Yes, that Giannis.

The connection is obvious. Lillard and Antetokounmpo spent two seasons together in Milwaukee. By all accounts, they’re close.

If Lillard is back — especially on what’s essentially a bargain deal at $14 million per year — it only adds fuel to the idea that the Blazers could swing big.

Of course, nothing is guaranteed. Portland isn’t expected to limit itself to just one target. But if Antetokounmpo is open to an extension, the Blazers are expected to at least make their pitch.

And really, why wouldn’t they? Lillard returning. Giannis arriving.

It may sound far-fetched. Then again, so did a lot of things in the NBA — right up until they happened.