The Milwaukee Bucks will officially kick off their first round playoff series in a few hours.
Leading up to what should be a feisty rematch from last season, injuries have been a crucial storyline, especially for the Bucks. While they won't be fully healthy for Game 1, there is hope that they can get some key cogs back as the series goes on. For now, let us analyze the current injury report for the opening game of the series.
Injury report for both Bucks, Pacers ahead of Game 1 in Indiana
Bucks:
Out: Damian Lillard (Return to competition reconditioning), Tyler Smith (Left ankle sprain)
It's no secret that Damian Lillard will be out for this game, as that has been clear for a few days now. However, after a "historic" recovery from his deep vein thrombosis, Lillard has an opportunity to hit the hardwood again a lot sooner than anyone thought. Anything beyond Game 1 appears to be on the table for Lillard's return, but for now, he will continue getting back into game shape.
Tyler Smith had been serving as Milwaukee's break glass in case of an emergency big man, and he even flexed some potential when given the chance. However, he will be out for this one. With one of their big men out, the Milwaukee Bucks will be getting back another.
Notably absent from the injury report is Jericho Sims, Milwaukee's backup big man, who was out of the lineup for around a month after undergoing surgery. Having Sims back will be huge in combating Indiana's athleticism and mobility. Doc Rivers has scarcely had Sims, Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis all available, so it will be interesting to see how he manages their minutes.
Lillard is obviously a significant absence, but outside of him, the Milwaukee Bucks will have all of their regulars for this opening playoff matchup. It would help tremendously if they could snag this one with him on the visitor's sidelines.
Pacers:
Out: Isaiah Jackson (Right Achilles tendon tear)
Probable: Ben Sheppard (Left great toe sprain)
No surprises for the Pacers. Jackson has been out for quite some time, while Sheppard will more than likely give it a go. Star forward Pascal Siakam had been dealing with an elbow injury, but it always felt like a long shot that he'd miss time in the postseason. As the injury report says, he's good to go with no restrictions.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.