Damian Lillard Undergoes Successful Achilles Surgery

Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard underwent successful surgery to repair a torn left Achilles tendon, which he sustained during Game 4 of the first-round NBA playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. The injury occurred shortly after Lillard had returned to action following a bout with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, having missed the last 14 regular-season games and the first game of the playoff series. Lillard had an MRI on Monday that confirmed the Achilles tear, leading to his absence for the remainder of the playoffs, which ended for the Bucks after a Game 5 overtime loss. The procedure was performed in Los Angeles by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, with consultation from the Bucks’ team orthopedic surgeon Dr. Carole Vetter. Despite his injury-plagued postseason, Lillard was among the NBA's top performers this season, ranking 10th in both scoring and assists, and earning his ninth All-Star selection. Bucks coach Doc Rivers expressed confidence in Lillard's resilience and determination to return.