Damian Lillard Injury Update: Game 4 Availability in Serious Trouble as 8x All-Star Sends Bucks Into Panic Mode

The Milwaukee Bucks grossly fell short of the dream season the entire league was hoping for. Now, they might even have an earlier playoff exit. Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo being out due to injury in the first round against the Indiana Pacers, the Bucks took game 1, thanks to Damian Lillard. However, things have spiraled downward since then, followed by the team losing two games in a row.

Recently, more devastating news thwarts their comeback hopes in game 4 even further. According to Shams Charania’s post on X, “Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard has suffered a strained Achilles, is in a walking boot, and there is serious doubt over his availability for Game 4 vs. Pacers on Sunday.”

During the Game 3 loss on Friday night, Lillard sustained an injury while driving to the basket in the first quarter. Landing heavily on his left leg, he seemed to hurt his knee and was subsequently escorted to the locker room for evaluation. However, he made a comeback in the second quarter to continue playing.

Dame’s injury seemed to hamper him in the second half, prompting the Bucks to rely on Patrick Beverley for ball-handling duties on numerous possessions. Despite the eight-time All-Star’s impressive 17-point performance after halftime, which hinted at a potential victory for Milwaukee, he visibly fatigued as the game progressed. Consequently, he became less influential during the crucial fourth quarter and overtime periods.

Facing a 1 game deficit, this might be the final nail in the coffin for the Bucks. The Greek Freek has been a no-show for the last 5 games, which includes the last two regular season games due to a strained left soleus. In his absence, Dame had been holding the team down offensively and currently leads the series scoring 32.3 points.

What’s next for Damian Lillard and the Bucks?

Milwaukee has been dealt a cruel hand since the playoffs last season. Last year it was an embarrassing blow-out loss against the 7th-seeded Miami Heat, and this year its injury to both their major players that threatened to send them home from round 1 again. There is still a game left in Indiana before the Bucks can head home again for game 5.

All the organization and the fans can hope for is that Dame returns in game 4, despite being doubtful. A ray of hope could be Kris Middleton, who was doubtful for game three he not only ended up playing but also had a 41-point outing.  So, Will Dame return? Or will the Bucks suffer yet another 4-1 loss in round 1?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.