A concerning medical diagnosis is expected to keep Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard off the court for the foreseeable future.
Lillard has missed the Bucks’ last three games due to a lingering calf injury. The calf issue has turned out to be far more serious than the Bucks initially anticipated.
On Tuesday, NBA reporter Chris Haynes revealed that Lillard was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, which means that a blood clot has formed in his right calf. The health issue will keep the All-Star guard out indefinitely.
Breaking: Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard will be out indefinitely after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his right calf, league sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/7fbTJji08m
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) March 26, 2025
Lillard has reportedly been taking blood thinners that have helped stabilize the blood clot for the time being.
The Oakland native has released a statement on the matter.
“It’s unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up,” Lillard wrote in his statement, via 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.”
Through 58 games this season, Lillard has averaged 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists on a 44.8% shooting clip.
San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama received a similar diagnosis that prematurely ended his season. Wemby had been experiencing pain in his right shoulder, which also turned out to be a blood clot issue. Wembanyama is expected to make a full recovery before the start of next season.
With just a few weeks left in the regular season, there’s a strong likelihood that Lillard will be unavailable for the playoffs.
