Damian Lillard’s injury report is one of the main talking points before Tuesday’s big game between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns. Lillard is listed on the injury report due to a persistent ailment. He’s missed just three games thus far, but Tuesday’s might be the fourth and a significant loss for the Bucks.
Milwaukee has dropped three out of four games on their West Coast road trip. Phoenix looks as promising as ever with its big three healthy, so coming into this game with all of their players available is critical for the Bucks.
Damian Lillard injury update: Will the Bucks star suit up tonight?
Lillard is out of the Bucks-Suns game. He has a doubtful status before Sunday’s game against the Utah Jazz. However, Lillard participated in that game.
Lillard recorded 12 points, six assists, and two blocks in 38 minutes against the Jazz. The former 75th Anniversary Team member struggled, shooting only 5 of 18 as the Bucks lost 123-108 due to a 40-13 fourth-quarter breakdown.
What has happened to Damian Lillard?
Damian Lillard is battling with a left ankle strain. He was on the injured list prior to Sunday’s game against the Jazz. It was the second night of a back-to-back, yet Lillard continued to play. That may have slowed his recuperation. Lillard’s ankle seemed to affect him against the Jazz, as he had one of his poorest games, scoring 12 points on 27.7% shooting.
Damian Lillard may have re-aggravated his ankle injury on a dunk attempt against the Jazz.
On Sunday, Lillard had a couple highlights against the Jazz. One of those came at the end of the third quarter, when he hit a spectacular one-handed slam after a high pick-and-roll with Bobby Portis. Lillard appeared to have a strong burst as he soared up for the jam, but fell on his injured left ankle. Lillard hopped onto one leg after finishing the play.
He continued to play after that, but was less influential. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers revealed Lillard was hampered by his ankle throughout the game and pondered benching the former Trail Blazer. However, the Bucks were shorthanded with Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez out, so Rivers had to play Lillard despite his knee problems.
Damian Lillard, with the exception of the previous two seasons in Portland, has been more consistent and accessible than any other NBA All-Star. If it had only been a little ailment, Lillard would not have missed this game.
