Bucks' Damian Lillard's Health Scare Significantly Affects Pacers

According to reports, Lillard is on blood-thinning medication to stabilize the blood clot. However, unless a miracle happens, Lillard will likely miss the rest of the season and possibly the 2025 playoffs. 

The Pacers currently hold a two-game lead over the Bucks for the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference. Last season, the two faced off in a close first-round playoff series. Ultimately, the healthier Pacers beat the injury-riddled Bucks. 

History has a strange way of repeating itself, but typically, it takes longer for the cycle to meet its loop. 

Indiana and Milwaukee will likely face off again in the first round, but this time, with Lillard sidelined instead of Giannis Antetokonmpo. 

Although it's a bitter pill to swallow, Lillard's absence from the lineup helps the Pacers pursue the Eastern Conference fourth seed and, ultimately, their plausible first-round postseason meeting. 

Despite the frightening possibility of having a blood clot, Lillard responded with positivity. 

“It’s unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up," Lillard told Haynes. "Along with the Bucks’ medical staff, our priorities are to protect my health and safety. As much as I love basketball, I need to be there for my kids and my family. I’m grateful the Bucks acted quickly on this. They’ve been supportive and proactive throughout this process. I look forward to moving past this and continuing my career.”

Although on-court performance is vital to the NBA, the players' health remains the top priority. Here's to hoping for a future healthy competition between the Pacers and Bucks.