Doc Rivers shared a renewed sense of optimism regarding Damian Lillard’s potential return to the Milwaukee Bucks before the season concludes, even as the team simultaneously prepares for the possibility of entering the playoffs without their star guard due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf.
“We have much more hope today than we did three days ago,” Rivers remarked before Thursday’s matchup against Philadelphia, signaling that Lillard’s recovery is progressing positively.
Lillard has now missed eight consecutive games following his diagnosis, and while he received what Rivers characterized as a “great report” on his health status, the team opted against having him travel due to concerns about the potential risks associated with flying.
The Bucks had previously announced that Lillard would be sidelined indefinitely – a different course of action compared to the San Antonio Spurs, who ruled out Victor Wembanyama for the remainder of the season in February after he was diagnosed with a similar thrombosis issue in his shoulder.
With just 10 days left in the regular season and the playoffs rapidly approaching, there remains no definitive timetable for Lillard’s return.
Recognizing the uncertainty, Rivers emphasized the need for the team to refine their game plan in Lillard’s absence.
Now in his second season with Milwaukee, Lillard has been a key contributor, averaging 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists per game.
However, with Lillard turning 35 this offseason, the Bucks are working within a tight championship window.
“You work on what we don’t have… because there’s no guarantee we are going to have him,” Rivers explained. “We get him back, we know how to play. But we don’t know how to play in the long term without him.”
Bucks Optimistic About Damian Lillard's Return From Blood Clot Issue https://t.co/IZia5k4Vts
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 4, 2025
