Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard suffered a significant left lower leg injury during Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. The injury occurred early in the first quarter, forcing Lillard to exit the game and leaving Bucks fans and analysts concerned about his availability moving forward.
Details of Damian Lillard Injury
With about 6:11 remaining in the opening quarter of the Bucks-Pacers game, Lillard chased an offensive rebound near the three-point line. After tipping the ball to teammate Gary Trent Jr., he suddenly collapsed, clutching the back of his left leg around the ankle and Achilles area. Unable to bear weight on his left foot, Lillard was helped off the court by Bucks coach Doc Rivers and teammates and did not return for the rest of the game.
The Bucks confirmed that Lillard suffered a “lower leg injury,” and an MRI scheduled for Monday will determine the full extent of the damage. Early reports and expert analysis fear that Lillard may have torn his Achilles tendon, a devastating injury for any NBA player, especially a guard like Dame Lillard who relies heavily on speed and agility.
Context: Lillard’s Recent Health Challenges
This injury compounds an already difficult season for Damien Lillard, who missed the final month of the regular season due to deep vein thrombosis (a blood clot) in his right calf. After being sidelined for over a month and cleared to play only recently, Dame Lillard returned in Game 2 of the series but struggled to regain his usual form.
Impact on Bucks and the Series
The injury to Lillard is a severe blow to the Milwaukee Bucks, who were already trailing the Indiana Pacers 2-1 in the series. The Pacers, led by Myles Turner and bolstered by strong team performances, won Game 4 decisively with a final score of 129-103. Without Lillard’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership, the Bucks face a daunting challenge to stay alive in the playoffs.
Coach Doc Rivers expressed concern about the injury, calling the prognosis “not very promising” and emphasizing the emotional toll on the team and player26.
Looking Ahead: NBA Schedule and Bucks Strategy
As the Bucks prepare for the upcoming games in the series, the absence of Dame Lillard will require other players like Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., and possibly Pascal Siakam to step up. The NBA schedule today and the remaining playoff games will be critical for Milwaukee’s postseason hopes.
Summary
- Injury: Damian Lillard suffered a left lower leg injury, feared to be a torn Achilles tendon, during Game 4 vs. Indiana Pacers.
- Game Outcome: Pacers won 129-103, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead.
- Key Players: Myles Turner led the Pacers; Bucks will rely on Gary Trent Jr. and others moving forward.
- Coach Comment: Doc Rivers described the injury outlook as “not very promising.”
- Next Steps: MRI scheduled; Bucks must adjust strategy without Dame Lillard.
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