Damian Lillard Injury Update: Bucks Star Expected to Make Playoff Return Soon
Basketball/Sports

Damian Lillard Injury Update: Bucks Star Expected to Make Playoff Return Soon

Damian Lillard is recovering from deep vein thrombosis and is expected to return in Game 2 or 3 against the Pacers after being cleared of his condition.

Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard has been cleared of deep vein thrombosis in his right calf and is no longer taking blood-thinning medication, the team announced on Thursday. Lillard will remain out for Game 1 of the team’s first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, but is expected to return in Game 2 or 3, per CBS Sports’ Bill Reiter.

“We’re thrilled for Dame,” Bucks GM Jon Horst said. “Our priority has always been Dame’s health. Every step of Dame’s recovery has been at the direction of world-class medical professionals and their specific and strict protocols that have allowed for Dame’s safe and healthy return to play.”

Lillard’s recovery time was considered “historic,” thanks in part to early detection and treatment.

Game 2 between the Bucks and Pacers is set for Tuesday, while Game 3 will be back in Milwaukee on Friday.

Earlier this week, the Bucks said in a statement that Lillard had made “significant” improvement.

Per the team’s statement:

“Damian’s most recent weekly scan shows that his injury has significantly improved which will enable him to move ahead safely with increased basketball activity,” said Bucks General Manager Jon Horst. “Damian’s health remains our No. 1 priority. We have followed strict protocols and will continue to do so. We are pleased with the positive news about Damian’s progress.”

Lillard has been out since March 18 with the diagnosis. Despite his absence, the Bucks went 10-4 and closed the season on an eight-game winning streak, indicating the team’s resilience. However, they will rely heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo during this series against an Indiana squad that has shown considerable strength as the season progressed.

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