The Milwaukee Bucks are battling the Indiana Pacers in Game 4 of their 2024–25 NBA Playoffs first-round series, looking to keep their hopes alive for advancing to the next round. However, their path has become even more complicated following a concerning development involving Damian Lillard.
Lillard exited the game in the first quarter with 6:00 minutes remaining after suffering a non-contact injury. The Bucks’ star guard secured a rebound off a missed shot, quickly attempted an outlet pass, and then collapsed to the floor without any apparent contact. Lillard immediately showed visible signs of pain, grabbing at his ankle before being helped off the court.
According to Chris Haynes via X (formerly Twitter), “Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard will not return tonight against the Indiana Pacers, league sources tell me. Injury potentially severe,” signaling a possible end to Lillard’s postseason run.
With Lillard sidelined, the Indiana Pacers appear to be firmly in control of the series, having already shown dominance in previous games. The Bucks, without their second star to support Giannis Antetokounmpo, could be significantly weakened moving forward. As it stands, Indiana holds a 2–1 series lead.
Damian Lillard #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after a game against the Houston Rockets during the second half at Toyota Center on February 25, 2025 in Houston, Texas.
How serious could the injury be?
While there has been no official medical update yet, it’s worth remembering that Lillard had only recently returned from a serious health issue. He had been sidelined for a month with a right calf deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) and missed Milwaukee’s playoff opener. The fact that he was able to return to the court so quickly was already a positive sign, but he has not looked fully like himself in the postseason.
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Lillard’s performance in the series
In two full games against the Pacers, Lillard has averaged just 10.5 points on .240/.188/.857 shooting splits, along with 6.0 assists and 3.0 rebounds per game. His seven points in 32 minutes during the Bucks’ 117–101 Game 3 win marked a playoff career-low.
Still, Lillard’s mere presence and clutch reputation — especially in NBA playoff moments — are invaluable. He is a player built for the biggest stages, as he has proven time and time again. Without him, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks are sure to feel his absence deeply as they fight to stay alive in the postseason.
