The Milwaukee Bucks are peaking at the right moment as they record an eighth straight victory and they did that without Damian Lillard who was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis.
They will head into the first round with the Indiana Pacers missing Dame’s 24.9 points per game and high quality playmaking.
Things might be different in case they reach the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Latest reports say Lillard is progressing well and there is a chance he will be able to play soon. The report defies experts’ take that DVT could take 3 months to fully heal.
Shams: Bucks optimistic Damian Lillard (blood clot) will be cleared to return at some point during playoffs.
Lillard has an upcoming exam to determine clearance for postseason play.
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) April 13, 2025
NBA analyst Jake Weinbach’s own report is more definite.
The Bucks are due for some good news regarding Damian Lillard’s availability for the first-round of the playoffs.
After injuries spoiled Milwaukee in the first-round series against Indiana last season, it would only be fair to see the Bucks fully healthy this time around.
— Jake Weinbach (@JWeinbachNBA) April 13, 2025
Damian Lillard’s constant presence on the bench
Lillard has been taking his injury in good spirit.
“As much as I love basketball, I need to be here for my kids and my family. I’m grateful the Bucks acted quickly on this. They’ve been supportive and proactive throughout this process. I look forward to moving past this and continuing my career,” he said in a statement shortly after the diagnosis.
He is not moping and is always present in team’s games, cheering his teammates.
Pat Connaughton, who had a big night in win over the Detroit Pistons, is thankful for the presence and cheer that Lillard and other main guys provide to them.
“They are tremendous basketball players and better people,” he said.
“And so them cheering on everyone that was on the court, them being present and really showing their competitive juices on the bench even though they weren’t playing.”
For more great Wisconsin sports content
Follow us @WiSportsHeroics for the latest and trending news about Packers, Brewers, Bucks, Marquette, and the rest of Wisconsin Sports. Stay updated by reading more of our Wisconsin Sports articles by clicking here and college basketball by clicking here!
