Damian Lillard’s injury occurred just minutes into Game 4 of the Bucks’ first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday night, sending shockwaves through Milwaukee and resonating deeply in Portland, where Lillard remains an icon.

Lillard went down in the first quarter after losing his footing while pursuing a rebound. He immediately clutched his left ankle and had to be helped off the court, unable to put any weight on his leg. 

The Bucks quickly ruled him out for the rest of the game with what was initially described as a lower leg injury. An MRI on Monday confirmed a torn Achilles tendon that will require surgery.

This setback comes just as Lillard had returned from a month-long absence caused by deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. He had missed the final 14 games of the regular season and Game 1 of the series, but was cleared to return for Game 2. 

Impact on the Bucks

Lillard’s absence leaves Milwaukee’s playoff ambitions in jeopardy, with the team now relying even more heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has already shouldered much of the offensive burden. The Bucks trail the Pacers 3-1 in the series and face elimination without their All-Star guard.

The injury also raises serious questions about Lillard’s long-term future. Achilles tears are among the most challenging injuries for NBA players to overcome, and at 34 years old, Lillard faces a lengthy and uncertain rehabilitation process. Comparisons have already been drawn to Kevin Durant, who missed an entire season following a similar injury.

Support Across the NBA

The news hit especially hard in Portland, where Lillard spent 11 seasons and became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Fans and former teammates expressed their support for Lillard, underscoring his lasting impact on the city.

Lillard himself posted on social media after the diagnosis, writing, “Appreciate all the prayers and well wishes. This one really hurt... HIS way not MY way. To Be Continued...” 

Bucks coach Doc Rivers called the situation “not very promising,” and Giannis Antetokounmpo praised Lillard’s toughness, saying, “He’s one of the toughest—mentally toughest—guys I’ve ever been around... I believe he’s going to overcome every obstacle that’s going to be in front of him. Everybody’s going to be there for him, and no matter what the obstacle is for him, he’s going to overcome and we’re going to help him overcome it.” 

With Lillard’s future uncertain and the Bucks facing a pivotal offseason, the franchise must now regroup and plan for the challenges ahead-on and off the court. 

The loss of Lillard is a major blow for Milwaukee’s championship aspirations and leaves questions about how the team will move forward as they face potential roster changes and the ongoing pursuit of an NBA title.