The Milwaukee Bucks could be without Giannis Antetokounmpo on Thursday night when they face the Memphis Grizzlies. This is after the 29-year-old was downgraded to questionable ahead of their final game before the All-Star break.
If Giannis ends up sitting out, much of the scoring load will fall on the shoulder of Damian Lillard, who incidentally, is listed on the injury report as well heading into Thursday’s contest. So, the question now is this: Is Damian Lillard playing tonight vs. the Grizzlies?
Milwaukee Bucks List Damian Lillard as Probable Vs. Grizzlies
However, the silver lining here is that unlike Antetokounmpo, there has been no change in Lillard’s status heading into the Grizzlies game. As of writing, Dame is still listed as probable to play with left ankle inflammation.
This means that Lillard, who was forced to sit out two games last week due to the same injury, will likely suit up. His availability will be of even more importance if the Bucks end up deciding to give Giannis (right knee patella tendinitis) the night off.
You also have to note that Khris Middleton has already been ruled out for Thursday’s bout, leaving Lillard as potentially the lone star available for the Bucks.
Given all this, the answer to the question of is Damian Lillard playing tonight vs. the Grizzlies, is that it’s likely.
UPDATE: Coach Doc Rivers has confirmed that Dame will play against the Grizzlies, along with Giannis:
Bucks coach Doc Rivers says both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard will be able to play tonight vs. the Grizzlies. https://t.co/NXmhL8EG4K
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) February 16, 2024
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