Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with a torn left Achilles tendon, sidelining him for the remainder of the postseason and casting doubt on his availability for next season. This injury occurred after Lillard had made a swift comeback from deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, having missed the final 14 regular-season games and Game 1 of the playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. Lillard sustained the injury during Game 4 while attempting to pass the ball to teammate Gary Trent Jr., requiring assistance to leave the court as he could not put weight on his left leg. Bucks coach Doc Rivers and teammates, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, expressed their admiration for Lillard's resilience and mental toughness, acknowledging the challenging circumstances he has faced. The Bucks, currently trailing 3-1 in the first-round series against the Pacers, have experienced a series of postseason injuries since their 2021 championship win, adding to their struggles this season.

Damian Lillard suffered a torn left Achilles tendon during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference first-round series against the Indiana Pacers, which will keep him out for the rest of the postseason and potentially affect his availability for the next season.

Lillard's injury comes after a rapid recovery from deep vein thrombosis in his right calf that caused him to miss the last 14 regular-season games and the first game of the playoff series.

The injury occurred when Lillard attempted to pass the ball to Gary Trent Jr., and he was unable to put weight on his left leg, eventually being helped off the court.

Coach Doc Rivers and teammates, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, praised Lillard's mental toughness and resilience, emphasizing the support he will receive from his teammates during his recovery.

Lillard was ranked 10th in the NBA for both scoring and assists this season, and his absence is a significant blow to the Bucks, who are currently trailing the Pacers 3-1 in the series.

The Bucks have endured a streak of bad luck with injuries during the postseason, having experienced similar setbacks with key players like Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo in previous campaigns.

Lillard's case of deep vein thrombosis was considered unusual by doctors, who noted its atypical characteristics, but he managed a remarkably quick return to participate in the playoffs before his Achilles injury.