Damian Lillard Questionable for Game 2 vs. Pacers After Blood Clot Recovery

Damian Lillard, sidelined with a blood clot in his right calf, missed the Milwaukee Bucks' Game 1 loss to the Indiana Pacers, which put extra pressure on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who scored 36 points but received little support from the rest of the team. Lillard has since been cleared off blood-thinning medication, returned to full basketball activities, and has been upgraded to questionable for Game 2, raising hopes he could provide a much-needed offensive boost. Coach Doc Rivers noted Lillard's progress but did not confirm his Game 2 status, though insiders suggest his return is imminent and, if not for Game 2, should occur by Game 3. Without Lillard, the Bucks struggled offensively, especially from three-point range, and failed to find consistent scoring outside of Antetokounmpo. Lillard's return is expected to address Milwaukee's offensive struggles and give them a better chance against a Pacers team that capitalized on the Bucks' lack of depth in Game 1. The dynamic between Lillard and Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton has also added intensity to the series, highlighted by viral trash talk during Game 1.