From the moment the Milwaukee Bucks traded for Damian Lillard on September 27, 2023, all fans could think about was seeing the star guard next to Giannis Antetokounmpo in the NBA Playoffs.
Having two big-game players next to each other could be the recipe to take the Bucks back to the promised land. However, last season, that luxury was stripped away due to Antetokounmpo missing the entire playoffs due to injury. This season, Lillard missed Game 1 as he recovered from deep vein thrombosis, continuing the streak. Weeks ago, it felt like seeing Lillard and Antetokounmpo on the big stage together was once again in jeopardy.
Well, now, it appears the dream is finally set to become reality.
NBA insider Chris Haynes reports that Lillard, who had been listed as questionable, will officially be back in the lineup for Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers.
Milwaukee's two stars will join forces in the playoffs for the first time
With Lillard good to go, the only player on Milwaukee's injury report is rookie Tyler Smith, giving the Milwaukee Bucks the healthiest roster they've had in a while. It comes at the perfect time, as a shot in the arm of Lillard's caliber is what this team needs after dropping Game 1 in embarrassing fashion.
Now, he has missed a few weeks, so it wouldn't be surprising if he's a tad rusty, but his presence alone should undoubtedly help.
The banged-up guard did average 31.3 points in four playoff games against Indiana last season, and he's unquestionably ready to get back on the floor after getting into it with Tyrese Haliburton from the sidelines in Game 1. Those two haven't been fond of each other dating back to last regular season, and the rivalry could enter a new chapter starting in Game 2.
Even with Damian Lillard back in the lineup, the Milwaukee Bucks cannot pencil in a win. They need the role players to hold up their end of the bargain, especially Kyle Kuzma after a Game 1 to forget. However, Bobby Portis, Brook Lopez, Kevin Porter Jr. and the rest of the team also need to come to play if the Milwaukee Bucks want to have a chance at evening up this first-round series.
A win in the first playoff game of the Antetokounmpo-Lillard pairing could go a long way as the series prepares to shift to Milwaukee.
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