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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Milwaukee Bucks will be returning home with a bitter taste of defeat after two consecutive losses. In Damian Lillard’s absence, the Bucks seemed to have hit a snag. They had soared to a 5-1 record with Dame in the lineup, but the last two games against the Pacers and Magic saw them stumble. Giannis Antetokounmpo erupted with 54 and 35 points in their last two games against the Pacers and Magic, respectively. However, it was not enough for the Bucks to ride on it. With two losses weighing heavily on their shoulders, the Bucks hope to reclaim victory as they prepare to face the Chicago Bulls tonight at the Finserv Forum.

After a slow start to the season, it looks like the Bulls are finally getting their groove back. They are coming off a 119-108 win against the Detroit Pistons. Given the Bucks’ recent struggles, it is evident that Giannis cannot win games single-handedly. Therefore, with the Bulls on the rise, will Dame make a triumphant return against the Bulls to help the Bucks improve their standings?

Will Damian Lillard suit up to lead Milwaukee to victory after two straight losses?

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Damian Lillard did not feature in Milwaukee’s last two on-the-road losses due to a persistent calf injury. While Lillard has not been injury-prone throughout his career, this particular calf injury has bothered him since early last season. The injury cost him his final 10 games with his former team, the Portland Trail Blazers. Bucks fans, however, can find a glimmer of hope in the latest updates. Lillard is now listed as a game-time decision, hinting at a possible return after sitting out the previous two games to address his nagging calf soreness.

USA Today via Reuters

On the flip side, the Bucks will have to navigate the court without the services of Chris Livingston, nursing a left ankle sprain. In addition, Jae Crowder finds himself on the sidelines due to a groin injury.

Was Dame the right choice?

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The recent setback for the Milwaukee Bucks has laid bare the team’s vulnerabilities. While the entire Bucks fandom was ecstatic upon Dame’s arrival, it also meant bidding goodbye to their defensive stalwart, Jrue Holiday. At the time, the offensive upside of the trade had rendered any concerns on the defensive side moot. But with each game, the repercussions become more apparent. In Holiday’s absence, the Bucks’ defense seems to have taken a hit. More so during the away games. In the four road games played so far, Milwaukee has conceded an average of 123.25 points per game.

Read More: Bucks Suffer Another Humiliation Without Damian Lillard ? 3 Key Takeaways From Giannis Antetokounmpo?s 2nd Straight Ruined Night

While the Bucks boast a stellar offense that often compensates for defensive lapses, Damian Lillard’s absence has accentuated the team’s flaws. Therefore, if the Bucks are serious about title contention this season, they will need their supporting cast to step up and address the defensive challenges head-on.

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Meanwhile, veteran guard Holiday has seamlessly adapted to his new role as the defensive linchpin for the Boston Celtics. His contributions have propelled the Celtics to secure the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings, with an impressive seven victories in nine games. This begs the question: Was opting for Damian Lillard the correct decision? Or was it a mistake to trade away Jrue Holiday? What do you think? Let us know in the comments!

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