As the Milwaukee Bucks face a crucial Game 6 in their Eastern Conference first-round series of the NBA playoffs against the Indiana Pacers, they received mixed news on the injury front. Damian Lillard has been cleared to play, providing a significant boost for Milwaukee, while Giannis Antetokounmpo remains sidelined due to a calf injury.
Lillard, who missed the past two games with a right Achilles injury, participated in pregame warmups and was subsequently upgraded from doubtful to questionable, before being declared available. His return comes at a critical time as the Bucks, trailing 3-2 in the series, look to stave off elimination in Indianapolis.
Milwaukee’s coach, Doc Rivers, shared that both Lillard and Antetokounmpo had “great workouts” on Thursday afternoon, although only Lillard was cleared to return to play, according to the official injury report.
Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, has been absent throughout the series after straining his calf on April 9. His continued absence leaves a significant gap in the Bucks’ lineup, both offensively and defensively.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers Updates
Despite missing their top two scorers, the Bucks managed a 115-92 victory over the Pacers in Game 5, buoyed by strong performances from Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis, who each scored 29 points. This win marked a historic moment as it was the first time an NBA team won a playoff game while missing its top two regular-season scorers.
Middleton’s contribution has been consistent, recording his third straight game with at least 25 points, along with 12 rebounds and five assists. His performance has been crucial in keeping the Bucks competitive despite the absence of Lillard and Antetokounmpo.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers Updates
The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton, are looking to close out the series at home and advance beyond the opening round for the first time since 2014.
Haliburton, who scored 16 points in the Pacers’ Game 5 loss, emphasized the need for increased competitiveness, noting, “At the end of the day, they outcompeted us tonight. They played harder. They played better.”
As Game 6 approaches, the Bucks are hopeful that Lillard’s return will provide the necessary spark to extend their season and potentially make history by overcoming a 3-1 series deficit for the first time.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers Updates
With their backs against the wall, Milwaukee’s resilience and strategic adjustments will be tested in what promises to be a highly contested matchup in Indianapolis.
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