Damian Lillard injury update: NBA insider reveals Bucks star’s status for Game 2 vs. Pacers

The Milwaukee Bucks will receive a huge lift to their lineup in Game 2 of their first-round playoff matchup against the Indiana Pacers. All-Star guard Damian Lillard is back in the lineup on Tuesday, per Shams Charania of ESPN.

Lillard, 34, has been sidelined since March 18 with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. Lillard, who missed the last 14 games of the regular season, was cleared of his deep vein thrombosis last week and is no longer on blood-thinning medication. That gave him clearance to return at some point in the postseason.

“We’re thrilled for Dame,” Bucks general manager Jon Horst said in a statement. “Our priority has always been Dame’s health. We’re grateful to our medical team for diagnosing and treating his DVT at an early stage, and for the world-renowned hematology specialists at Mayo Clinic. Every step of Dame’s recovery has been at the direction of world-class medical professionals and their specific and strict protocols that have allowed for Dame’s safe and healthy return to play.”

Damian Lillard set for Bucks return

He did not suit up in Game 1 in Indianapolis, a 117-98 Pacers victory. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 36 points. Milwaukee’s four other starters combined for just 14 points. Kyle Kuzma and Taurean Prince failed to get on the score sheet entirely.

“I think we were late, like we got into scrambling mode, and they would create for the next guy and that’s what they want you to do,” Antetokounmpo said. “We didn’t have enough urgency. Going into Game 2, hopefully we can change that.”

The Bucks need Lillard, and they need him at his best. The good news is that Lillard was at his best before the blood clot. Lillard averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game in 58 games this season. He averaged 31.3 points, 5.0 assists and 3.3 rebounds during the playoffs for the Bucks last season.