Milwaukee Bucks' star guard Damian Lillard underwent an MRI to assess the extent of his Achilles injury following the team's playoff game against the Indiana Pacers. Coach Doc Rivers expressed uncertainty about Lillard's availability for Game 4, stating that the results of the test were pending. Lillard was seen wearing a walking boot on his right foot, indicating the seriousness of the injury.
During the previous game, Lillard visibly struggled with a left knee twist caused by an incident with Pacers' forward Pascal Siakam. Despite returning to play and contributing 28 points and eight assists, Lillard disclosed post-game that he had also aggravated his Achilles tendon late in the match.
The Bucks are facing potential setbacks as they may be without both Lillard and two-time league MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo for Game 4. Antetokounmpo has been sidelined with a left calf strain since early April, and while there is a possibility of his return, it remains uncertain. However, there was positive news regarding Khris Middleton, who scored a playoff-career high of 42 points in Game 3 and seemed to be recovering well from a sprained ankle.
Milwaukee has a history of dealing with postseason injuries, with Antetokounmpo and Middleton having missed crucial playoff games in previous seasons. Coach Rivers acknowledged the challenges posed by the potential absence of key players but expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt and strategize for the upcoming game against the Pacers.
As the Bucks prepare for Game 4, the focus remains on managing the roster effectively and finding alternative strategies to compensate for the absence of key players. With uncertainties surrounding Lillard and Antetokounmpo's availability, the team is gearing up to face the Pacers in a critical playoff matchup.
