Reports: Lillard has Achilles strain, status unclear for Game 4

Field Level Media|published: Sat 27th April, 15:33 2024

Apr 26, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) defends during game three of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. credits: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Bucks star Damian Lillard was in a walking boot Saturday because of a strained right Achilles tendon, according to multiple reports, making his availability for Milwaukee's playoff game against the Indiana Pacers on Sunday a question mark.

On Friday, Lillard clutched at his leg in pain after a foul on Aaron Nesmith with 6.2 seconds left in regulation of Game 3 of the team's first-round series against the Pacers. Lillard remained in the game into overtime but was scoreless in the extra period and had zero shot attempts as the Bucks fell to the Pacers 121-118.

Lillard has been dealing with Achilles discomfort for several weeks, he revealed after the team's last regular-season game. He sat out the first few playoff practices for rest.

Lillard's status for Game 4 of the Western Conference matchup at Indiana is unclear.

The Bucks trail in the best-of-seven series 2-1 and are already without former two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has yet to appear in the playoffs due to a calf strain.

Lillard was 6 of 20 from the floor for 28 points in Game 3, adding eight assists and three steals. He finished the regular season averaging 24.3 points, 7.0 assists and 4.4 rebounds per game.

—Field Level Media

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