Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian
Lillard has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his
right calf, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

He is currently on
blood-thinning medication to address the condition and will undergo
regular testing. As a result, Lillard will be sidelined
indefinitely, with no specific timeline provided for his
return. 

Lillard, 34, had missed the
Bucks’ last three games due to calf soreness. Following
consultations with medical specialists, the DVT diagnosis was
confirmed. The team’s general manager, Jon Horst, emphasized that
Lillard’s health is the organization’s top priority, noting the
prompt identification and treatment of the condition.

Deep vein thrombosis occurs when
a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the legs. If
untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including
pulmonary embolism. ​Notably, Spurs young superstar Victor
Wembanyama has also experienced the same injury this year, leading
to him being shut down for the rest of the season.

Lillard joined the Bucks in 2023
after 11 seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers. This season, he
has averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game. The Bucks will
need to adjust their lineup to compensate for the absence of their
seven-time All-Star as they continue their push in the Eastern
Conference, while theteam
and fans remain hopeful for Lillard’s full recovery and eventual
return to the court.​

ANALYSIS: This hugely impacts
Milwaukee’s title chances this season with Lillard out for an
indefinite amount of time. Giannis Antetokounmpo will have to carry
and will the Bucks and keep them afloat in the regular season
enough to try and win a series in the playoffs in the top-heavy
East.