The Milwaukee Bucks received unsettling news this week as star guard Damian Lillard was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right calf, causing him to be sidelined indefinitely. Lillard, is on blood-thinning medication that has secured the clot, and the team remains cautiously optimistic that he may return this season. “Damian’s health is our No. 1 priority,” said Bucks general manager Jon Horst. “We will support him through this strict weekly process to ensure his safe return to play.”
The issue with Lillard’s calf started as discomfort beyond the usual strain, prompting further testing. “A rigorous discovery process began,” with Lillard consulting top hematologists, including at the Mayo Clinic, as he underwent MRIs and sonograms. The results led to his treatment with blood thinners starting Friday, with promising signs that the medication is working well.
Lillard has already missed the Bucks’ last three games, and the injury adds to a season of setbacks for the All-Star guard, who also missed time earlier this season due to a concussion and calf strains. His absence is particularly tough for the Bucks as they fight for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference, currently sitting at 40-31, in a tight race with the Detroit Pistons for the fifth seed.
Despite the setback, Lillard has remained focused on his health and family, emphasizing that “as much as I love basketball, I need to be there for my kids and my family.” Lillard, who is having an outstanding year, is the second high-profile player to be diagnosed with DVT this season, joining San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama, who was ruled out for the season.
The Bucks, despite being virtually guaranteed a playoff spot, are left grappling with how to compete without one of their superstars for an extended period. With just 11 games remaining, the team hopes for a swift and full recovery for Lillard, although the situation raises concerns about the possibility of entering the playoffs without both Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was sidelined last year by a calf injury during the Bucks’ first-round exit.
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