Damian Lillard cleared for full basketball activity, sidelined for Game 1

Milwaukee Bucks star guard Damian Lillard has been cleared for full basketball activity after being treated for deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, a condition that required him to take blood-thinning medication and miss the last 14 games of the regular season. While Lillard will not be available for Game 1 of the Bucks' first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, he is expected to return for subsequent games, with team officials and medical experts expressing optimism about his recovery. Bucks coach Doc Rivers emphasized the seriousness of Lillard's condition, calling his return a 'godsend' and noting that early detection and world-class medical treatment were critical. Lillard's recovery, described as remarkable and possibly unprecedented in speed, has boosted team morale as they prepare for the playoffs. Throughout his absence, team officials and Lillard himself highlighted the priority placed on his health and the proactive response by the Bucks' medical staff. Lillard, a nine-time All-Star, averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists this season, reinforcing his key role in Milwaukee's playoff hopes.