Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard will sit out the beginning of the NBA playoffs due to a blood clot in his right calf, as per sources. Lillard, sidelined since March 18, is showing positive progress with the clot shrinking, but has not received clearance for full basketball activities. The Bucks have not provided a definite timeline for his return, stating Lillard has made significant improvement and will gradually increase on-court engagements under strict protocols.
The team announced that Lillard, undergoing treatment for deep vein thrombosis, will escalate basketball-related activities, emphasizing his health as the top priority. Bucks general manager Jon Horst expressed satisfaction with Lillard's advancements, highlighting the ongoing adherence to safety measures. Lillard's absence, averaging 24.9 points and 7.1 assists, poses challenges for the Bucks, who finished the regular season on an eight-game winning streak without him. Coach Doc Rivers remains hopeful for Lillard's return but acknowledges the team's readiness for potential long-term absence.