The Milwaukee Bucks are currently in a tense battle for their playoff survival against the Indiana Pacers. Following a strong win in game one, the Bucks lost three consecutive games, leaving them at a 3-1 disadvantage against Indiana. However, they bounced back with another strong win in game five, forcing the series back to Indiana for game six.
Damian Lillard was absent from game five due to an Achilles injury, and his availability for game six has been uncertain. However, Milwaukee received significant news regarding their star point guard.
The Milwaukee Bucks Get Huge Damian Lillard News Prior To Game Six Against The Indiana Pacers
Milwaukee Bucks’ star guard Damian Lillard’s status has been upgraded from doubtful to questionable for Thursday’s Game 6 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Meanwhile, two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo remains doubtful due to a calf injury that has sidelined him since April 9.
Sources close to the situation have informed ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that both Antetokounmpo and Lillard are working towards playing on Thursday, but it’s still uncertain if either will be available.
Lillard has missed the last two games due to a right Achilles injury. The Bucks, who are currently trailing 3-2 in the best-of-seven series, have heavily relied on Lillard, who averaged 32.3 points in the first three games.
Coach Doc Rivers described Lillard and Antetokounmpo as “very, very, very close” to playing in Tuesday’s game.
In Game 5, without Lillard and Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis stepped up, each scoring 29 points, leading the Bucks to a 115-92 victory over Indiana. This win made the Bucks the first team in NBA history to win a playoff game while missing their top two regular-season scorers.
This Series Means A Lot For Milwaukee As A Whole
The Milwaukee Bucks are under considerable pressure to avoid another early exit from the NBA playoffs. Despite the role injuries have played this year, Giannis has emphasized his desire to win. If Milwaukee doesn’t meet his standards of competitiveness, he’s open to leaving.
Damian Lillard joined the Bucks with the intention of winning. With players like Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton aging, maintaining the core of the team is crucial. Postseason success appears essential to achieving this.
A first-round defeat against the Indiana Pacers could harm the interest of key players in staying with the Bucks.
