The Milwaukee Bucks’ championship hopes are in jeopardy as star player Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis.
Milwaukee Bucks All-Star guard Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, the team announced.
According to the Bucks, Lillard is currently on blood-thinning medication, which has stabilized his condition. He will continue to undergo further testing. The team did not provide a specific timeline for Lillard’s return on Tuesday, stating only that updates would be shared as appropriate.
“Damian’s health is our top priority,” Bucks general manager Jon Horst said in a statement. “We will support him as he follows a weekly process with strict criteria to ensure it is safe for him to return to play. Doctors have indicated that his condition is very unlikely to recur. We are grateful that this was identified and treated quickly, which aids in his recovery.”
Lillard, 34, last played on March 18 against the Golden State Warriors before missing the Bucks’ last three games due to what was initially described as a calf injury.
In his second season with Milwaukee, Lillard is averaging 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game across 58 games (all starts). Throughout his career, which includes stints with the Portland Trail Blazers (2012-23) and the Bucks, he has averaged 25.1 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.3 rebounds per game over 900 games.
The Bucks (40-31) have 11 games left in the regular season. They currently hold fifth place in the Eastern Conference standings but are without two key big men: Jericho Sims (thumb injury) and Bobby Portis Jr (suspension).
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