Damian Lillard medically cleared, expected to return after Game 1 of the playoffs

2025-04-17T19:40:13+00:00 2025-04-18T15:26:53+00:00.

Aris Barkas

17/Apr/25 19:40

Eurohoops.net

Milwaukee’s star guard is expected to compete in the playoffs, even if there’s no clear timetable about his return

By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net

As the Bucks are preparing for the first-round matchup with the Indiana Pacers, the return of Damian Lillard to action seems to be closer than ever.

Per Shams Charania, Lillard “has been cleared of his deep vein thrombosis and is no longer on blood-thinning medication”.

The report clarifies that the player will miss Game 1 on Saturday and will still need some time to return to action. However, it’s a “remarkable and historic development to clear the blood clot in just over three weeks”.

The Bucks confirmed those informations with the following press release:

“Damian Lillard has been cleared for full basketball activity as the deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his right calf has resolved, and he is no longer on blood-thinning medication.

“We’re thrilled for Dame,” said Bucks General Manager Jon Horst. “Our priority has always been Dame’s health. We’re grateful to our medical team for diagnosing and treating his DVT at an early stage, and for the world-renown hematology specialists at Mayo Clinic. Every step of Dame’s recovery has been at the direction of world-class medical professionals and their specific and strict protocols that have allowed for Dame’s safe and healthy return to play.”

Lillard will continue to increase his on-court basketball activity in preparation for his return to play”.

There was an earlier press release about Lillard being on track to get healthy. However, it seems that there’s a good chance for him to play in the first round, helping the Bucks to advance over the Pacers, something that a week ago seemed very farfetched.

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