Heartbreak for Damian Lillard as Worst Fears Confirmed
The Milwaukee Bucks saw Damian Lillard leave their Sunday night 116-113 loss to the Indiana Pacers in the first quarter after suffering a non-contact injury. Lillard was almost immediately ruled out from re-entering the game as speculation mounted about a potential Achilles rupture for the 34-year-old guard.
The Pacers have taken a 3-1 series lead over the Bucks, so Lillard being sidelined for the pivotal Game 5 was a given. However, everyone's worst fears have come true as Shams Charania of ESPN has confirmed that Lillard has torn his left Achilles tendon.
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"Just in: Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with a torn left Achilles tendon, sources tell ESPN. MRI today revealed the severity. A devastating end to his season."
Chris Haynes had revealed he had spoken to Lillard before the confirmation of the Achilles tear, with Lillard reportedly in good spirits and motivated to return at an All-Star level.
"I spoke with Damian briefly. He's in good spirits. Motivated to attack this recovery process. He looks forward to returning to All-Star form whenever a timeline is established."
Apr 22, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) during game two of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn
This was Lillard's second season with the Bucks, averaging xxx over the season and being named an All-Star. He suffered a late-season setback with a blood clot diagnosis, which caused him to miss over a month before he made an early return to compete in the Playoffs.
Lillard struggled in the postseason, averaging 7.0 points, 2.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists before his injury. It was a troubled season for the nine-time All-Star, who'll likely spend the entirety of next season rehabilitating from this injury.
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