MILWAUKEE — An eerie silence enveloped Fiserv Forum during the first quarter of Game 4 in the series between the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers, which concluded with a score of 129-103 in favor of the Pacers. The moment of tension came when Damian Lillard, who had recently returned from a prolonged absence due to a blood clot in his calf, unexpectedly collapsed while attempting to secure an offensive rebound after a missed three-pointer. He immediately reached for his left calf and ankle, signaling distress.
As the game paused, Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma assisted Lillard in standing up, but the star could not bear weight on his injured leg. Hopping with help from Bucks coach Doc Rivers and medical staff, Lillard made his way to the bench, ultimately requiring support from Andre Jackson Jr. to exit the court. Before the first half concluded, the Bucks announced Lillard would not return due to what they termed a “lower left leg injury.” Reports soon followed suggesting the possibility of a torn Achilles tendon, heightening concerns for the veteran player.
After the game, Rivers expressed his worry for Lillard’s health and confirmed he would undergo an MRI the following day, though he noted the outlook was “not very promising.” Crutches and a walking boot were necessary as Lillard exited, underscoring the seriousness of the situation.
Prior to Lillard’s injury, the Bucks were down by only three points. However, that margin ballooned to eleven by halftime. Rivers remarked on the emotional toll the injury took on the team, acknowledging it as a significant blow. “I’ve seen injuries deflate teams,” he said. “Tonight, that one hurt. It’s hard to lift a group after something like that.”
In the locker room, a somber atmosphere prevailed. A few players remained, reflecting on Lillard’s dedication and work ethic. Bobby Portis noted the sadness surrounding Lillard’s situation, emphasizing the impact of his absence on the team’s dynamic. “It’s tough for us. We need him out there,” Portis stated.
Lillard’s earlier health scare had been a blood clot diagnosed just a few weeks prior, prompting fears that his season might be over. A sense of relief washed over fans when he successfully returned for Game 2. The emotional rollercoaster of his comeback took a harsh turn, however, as he struggled in his first games back, hitting just 6 of 25 shots in two outings. Nevertheless, Lillard’s mere presence invigorated the team, as they secured a victory in Game 3.
As the clock ticked past midnight, a weary Giannis Antetokounmpo addressed the media. “What do we got?” he pondered aloud, encapsulating the gravity of the situation. He openly shared his respect for Lillard, acknowledging the journey he had faced both on and off the court. “I respect him a lot,” Antetokounmpo added, emphasizing the bond they had forged as teammates.
Should Lillard’s injury prove to be severe, the Bucks’ hopes for a series comeback could be critically compromised. Beyond the immediate challenge of competing against the Pacers, concerns surrounding Lillard’s long-term health now loom large over the organization.
As Rivers departed the podium after his commentary, he uttered a quiet expression of frustration, underscoring the weight of the moment. The atmosphere in Milwaukee hangs heavy with uncertainty, as both fans and teammates brace for news that could develop far beyond the confines of this postseason series.