The timing couldn’t be worse for the Bucks. As the playoffs approach and the Pistons breathe heavy on neck, worry looms over their star players. It feels like history repeating itself, but this time, it’s not just one player who has joined the injury report before the postseason. Both Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s futures are uncertain. After Shams Charania’s nerve-wracking news about Dame Time’s blood clot in his right calf, there’s finally an update that could provide Milwaukee fans with a momentary sense of relief.

What once seemed like an indefinite absence might not be the case after all. The deep vein thrombosis that Charania mentioned Lillard’s diagnosis had revealed is the same injury Victor Wembanyama sustained in his right shoulder, which is keeping him out for this entire regular season. But it might not be the same case for Lillard.

According to National reporter Jamal Collier, “There’s still optimism at this time that Dame is going to play again at some point this season. He’s been on those blood thinners since last week and the team is going to continue to monitor and test him regularly to see how the blood clot is doing with 11 games to go in the regular season before the playoffs.”

The insider further shared that during his conversation with Lillard, the Bucks star expressed his desire to return to the court for the postseason. “I spoke to Dame and he mentioned how much he was looking forward to the playoffs, how his chemistry with Giannis and their comfortability has really improved this year in year two versus year one. So he really wants to get back on the floor if at all possible,” Collier added.

But for now, like he said, Damian Lillard’s main focus is getting healthier. “His focus last night was … on the sensitivity of the issue, on his health,” Collier claimed. “He was happy that the Bucks caught this early and acted swiftly on it and he was able to get on the medication and is starting to stabilize from this early injury.”

What started as “just normal soreness,” as Lillard described it on Monday, quickly turned into a major concern for the Bucks. It all started when the franchise added Lillard to their injury list for a strained calf. On Tuesday, reports revealed his troubling condition, and the Bucks made it public. And now, his on-court partner also joined him on the injury list.

After Damian Lillard, Bucks ruled out Giannis Antetokounmpo

Hours before the game against the Nuggets on Wednesday, the Bucks announced their injury report, and surprisingly, Giannis was also on it. That too ruled out. The Greek Freak would miss the matchup because of his foot sprain. Missing both Lillard and Giannis is a big blow for the Bucks, especially with the competition heating up.

Giannis is already delivering an MVP-caliber performance, with his averages of 30.2 points, 12 rebounds, and 5.9 assists. Meanwhile, Lillard is contributing 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game. So, it’s safe to say that the duo is the backbone of the team, driving the offense. No wonder their absence could be daunting.

The Nuggets are no easy opponents, and when they gain an advantage, they’ll certainly capitalize on it. However, the franchise will obviously prioritize their players’ health, as they have a championship dream to fulfill. But like any other East vs West clash, this one will surely be thrilling. So, tune in at 9 PM ET to catch the live action from Ball Arena.