Lillard scores 21 in return to help Blazers top Pacers

Damian Lillard scored 21 points in his return to the lineup as the Portland Trail Blazers topped the Indiana Pacers 116-100 on Sunday evening at the Moda Center.

Lillard had missed the past seven contests due to a calf strain with the Blazers going 2-5 during that span. The six-time All-Star went 7-of-16 from the field to go along with six assists, four boards, one steal, and one block in 32 minutes.

"I just wanted to come out and just get back in the flow. Fly around a little bit and see how I felt," Lillard said postgame. "I felt really good."

Guard Josh Hart was also back after missing the past two games with an ankle sprain. He finished with 11 points, 10 boards, three assists, and three steals.

Anfernee Simons and Justise Winslow handled most of the playmaking responsibilities during Lillard's absence, posting a combined 9.4 assists per game.

Lillard was off to a strong start before sustaining his second calf injury of the season. The 32-year-old is averaging 26.3 points, 7.0 assists, and 4.3 boards over 11 appearances.

Portland improved to 13-11 with Sunday's win and now sit eighth in the West.