Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard recently discussed the challenges of developing on-court chemistry with Giannis Antetokounmpo during his appearance on the Eye for the Game podcast hosted by Austin Rivers.
The seven-time All-NBA selection emphasized that the duo’s adjustment process went beyond just basketball drills, focusing instead on building trust.
“It was a matter of getting to know each other as men,” Lillard said, via HoopsHype, adding that understanding each other’s intentions on the court was more critical than structured offseason workouts.
Lillard highlighted that both players entered the partnership with distinct responsibilities and expectations, requiring mutual confidence to coexist effectively.
The veteran guard explained that Antetokounmpo had never played with a scorer of his caliber, contrasting himself with former Bucks teammates like Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton.
Lillard noted that Holiday’s willingness to sacrifice touches made things simpler for the two-time MVP, while his own scoring role required a new level of coordination.
“That was a big adjustment for both of us,” he said, pointing out the contrast in playing styles and offensive priorities.
In his second season in Milwaukee, Lillard is averaging 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists over 36.1 minutes per game.
However, he has been sidelined indefinitely since March 25 with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. However, Bucks coach Doc Rivers recently expressed optimism about Lillard’s recovery.
Milwaukee, currently 47–34 and fifth in the Eastern Conference, has remained in the playoff picture despite Lillard’s absence, trailing the first-place Cavaliers by 17 games.
Reflecting on the season, Lillard emphasized the importance of cohesion, especially with a supporting cast that includes Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Malik Beasley.
“It really comes down to sacrifice,” Lillard said, noting that all players must align around a shared goal of winning rather than individual agendas.
The Bucks have posted a +2.04 SRS rating this season while averaging 115.2 points per game, but defensive consistency remains a concern heading into the postseason.
With the playoffs approaching and Lillard’s return timeline still uncertain, Milwaukee’s success may hinge on how well the team executes without their starting point guard.
Antetokounmpo continues to lead the franchise statistically, but the full impact of Lillard’s absence may be felt in close playoff contests where shot creation and late-game execution are critical.
