There is a lot riding on the Milwaukee Bucks' playoff run, and they will begin their quest for a championship against the Indiana Pacers. The Pacers beat them in the semifinals last season, adding another layer to this first-round series, but the Bucks will be short-handed, with star Damian Lillard still recovering from deep vein thrombosis in his calf.
There have been positive developments, however, suggesting that Lillard will return sooner rather than later. That is a surprising development considering that DVT normally keeps players out for months on end, while Lillard has only been out for approximately a month.
Lillard's eventual return gives the Bucks a chance to make a deep playoff run, although they will face an uphill battle with them having to go through the Pacers and then potentially the Cleveland Cavaliers before facing the Boston Celtics or New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals.
They will need Lillard healthy to do so. However, is he playing Game 1 of their Eastern Conference first-round series against the Pacers?
Milwaukee Bucks full injury report vs. Indiana Pacers
Currently, Lillard is listed as out for Game 1 against the Pacers. Though he is definitely ramping up and could potentially be available for Game 2 or, more likely, Game 3. That is when the series moves from Indiana back to Milwaukee.
That will give him extra time to get back in game shape and give the Bucks a major boost. Joining Lillard on the Bucks injury report is Tyler Smith, who is out with an ankle sprain.
All things considered, Milwaukee is entering the playoffs relatively healthy, with them still having their remaining rotation intact, including superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Indiana Pacers injury report vs. the Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks will be without backup center Isaiah Jackson, who tore his ACL, and Ben Shepherd, though he is listed as probable even though he may not play. The Bucks have a tough enough task to beat the Pacers, who have home-court advantage and no major injuries.
If the Pacers can hold home court for the first two games and enter Milwaukee with a 2-0 lead, then their chances of winning the series go way up. On the other hand, if Milwaukee can steal a game without Lillard in the lineup, then they will be in the driver's seat heading back to Milwaukee with a 1-1 series split.
Overall, Lillard appears to be making significant progress towards a return to the lineup. He won't play Game 1 and potentially Game 2, but appears likely to return by Game 3 at the latest.