Milwaukee — April 19, 2025
Damian Lillard is close to returning for the Milwaukee Bucks in their first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. Sources told ESPN that Lillard could be back for Game 2 or Game 3.
Damian Lillard Injury Recovery Timeline
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Game 1: Saturday in Indianapolis (Lillard did not play).
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Game 2: Tuesday in Indianapolis.
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Game 3: Friday in Milwaukee.
Lillard was diagnosed with a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis) in his right calf just over three weeks ago.
He was cleared from DVT and stopped taking blood-thinning medication on Thursday.
Lillard joined his first full team practice later that day and is now working to rebuild his game stamina.
Bucks Coach Doc Rivers on Damian Lillard
Bucks coach Doc Rivers emphasized how serious the situation was:
“This could have been career-threatening. It’s a godsend that Lillard will return for the playoffs.”
Damian Lillard’s Season by the Numbers
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2024-25 Regular Season: 24.9 points per game, 7.1 assists per game (58 games played).
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2024 Playoffs (last season): 31.3 points per game, 5.0 assists, 3.3 rebounds.
Even without Lillard, the Bucks finished strong:
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Record without Lillard (last 14 games): 10-4.
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End of season streak: 8 straight wins.
Why Damian Lillard’s Fast Recovery Matters
Doctors credited Lillard’s quick recovery to:
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Early detection of the clot.
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Immediate and aggressive treatment.
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Top specialists stepping in before the formal diagnosis on March 25.
Without early action, the injury could have been career-threatening.
Now, Lillard’s potential return could give the Bucks a huge lift as they trail the Pacers 1-0 after Saturday’s Game 1 loss.
What’s Next for the Bucks and Lillard
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Game 2: Tuesday night in Indianapolis.
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If Not Game 2: Lillard is expected to return Friday in front of Milwaukee’s home crowd for Game 3.
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Series Status: Indiana Pacers lead 1-0.
Milwaukee will hope Lillard’s comeback can swing the momentum as they look to even the series.
