Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard suffered a significant Achilles injury during Sunday night’s 129-103 Game 4 loss to the Indiana Pacers.
Damian Lillard Suffers Achilles Injury
Live on @SportsCenter: https://t.co/Cm3X2goMVd pic.twitter.com/MfvjMAxGrG
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 28, 2025
The Milwaukee Bucks received the worst-case scenario on Monday morning.
Per ESPN’s Shams Charania, an MRI revealed that Lillard suffered a torn left Achilles tendon and will undergo surgery.
The injury knocks Lillard out for the rest of the postseason and most of the 2025-2026 season. Lillard’s rehab and recovery will determine whether he misses next season entirely or returns in the second half.
Lillard suffered the non-contact injury in the first quarter after trying to grab an offensive rebound. Lillard immediately fell to the floor and needed help to walk off the court. Lillard could not put any weight on his left leg.
“He’s one of the toughest, mentally toughest, guys I’ve ever been around, and that’s why he is who he is,” Giannis Antetokounmpo said after the Game 4 loss. “And I believe he’s going to overcome every obstacle that’s going to be in front of him.”
It’s been a tough few weeks for Lillard. Lillard missed the Bucks’ final 14 regular-season games due to a blood clot. The veteran guard returned to the lineup in Game 2.
Lillard capped off a successful 2024 campaign with averages of 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds.
Where Do The Bucks Go From Here?
"He's one of the toughest, mentally toughest, guys I've ever been around."
Giannis has the ultimate respect for Dame. pic.twitter.com/3nKFwNimcn
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 28, 2025
After Sunday night’s loss, the Bucks face a 3-1 deficit to the Indiana Pacers.
While not mathematically eliminated, the Bucks overcoming a 3-1 lead to win the series is unlikely.
Even in defeat, Antetokounmpo has put up video game numbers this series. The Greek Freak is averaging 33.8 points, 14.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists against the Pacers.
However, Antetokounmpo’s Herculean numbers will likely not be enough to advance to the second round.
With Lillard out for the foreseeable future, expect the Antetokounmpo trade rumors to heat up this offseason. Will the two-time MVP ask out of Milwaukee? Only time will tell.
