Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard recovers from deep vein thrombosis — here’s when he’ll return for the playoffs

Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard will be back in time to lead his team through the playoffs. He has been cleared to return to the court after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis. While he may not be available for Game 1 of this year's Eastern Conference playoffs against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, there’s no stopping the point guard after that.
ESPN’s NBA insider Shams Charania shared an update on Lillard’s health, citing sources, stating that he is no longer on blood-thinning medication. He added that although Lillard will miss the first game against the Pacers, he is expected to be available for the following matchups.
Charania further reported, “Remarkable and historic development to clear from the blood clot in just over 3 weeks. Doctors have told Bucks officials this recovery has never been seen before – but occurred due to early treatment, detection, and specialists working on Lillard even before formal diagnosis.”

Lillard was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, where he made an explosive debut by setting a franchise record with 39 points against the Philadelphia 76ers. On March 25, the 34-year-old was ruled out indefinitely after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf.
Post his diagnosis, Lillard had told Chris Haynes, “It’s unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up. 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.”
Lillard, along with Kyle Kuzma and Giannis Antetokounmpo, forms the core of the Milwaukee Bucks’ powerhouse roster. He averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game this season. He ranks fourth on the NBA’s all-time three-point shooting list.
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Lillard has earned numerous accolades both on and off the court. He won a gold medal with the U.S. Olympic team at the 2020 Summer Olympics. He’s also a rapper known by his stage name Dame D.O.L.L.A. In the NBA, he's famously referred to as “Dame Time.”