Lillard Returns as Bucks Face Pacers in NBA Playoff Showdown

INDIANAPOLIS — The Milwaukee Bucks have the opportunity to tie their first-round NBA playoff series against the Indiana Pacers at 2-2 on Sunday night at Fiserv Forum. Game 4 is set to tip off at 8:30 p.m. and will broadcast nationally on TNT.

The Pacers will be without a key player in forward Bennedict Mathurin, who is out due to an abdominal injury sustained in Game 3, according to head coach Rick Carlisle. The series currently stands at 2-1 in favor of the Pacers, who won the opening game 117-98.

Regular-season standout Damian Lillard is making his return after a health scare related to a blood clot in his right calf that sidelined him since March 18. Lillard expressed confidence ahead of his return, stating, “I was able to lift, which was good, I was able to keep my body strong. But it was weeks before they even allowed me to jump.” Team officials confirmed Lillard’s availability on Tuesday morning after listing him as questionable in previous updates.

Bucks coach Doc Rivers is monitoring Lillard closely after limited practice time, saying, “When you hear blood clot, the last thing you think is him playing again, maybe not ever. But he says he wants to play, and we’re all good with it.”

Lillard’s performance is crucial for Milwaukee, especially after their struggles shooting from three-point range in Game 1. He averaged 18.3 points and 9.3 assists against Indiana during the regular season, having previously excelled against them in last year’s playoffs.

Giannis Antetokounmpo shared his support for Lillard’s health and readiness, saying, “Happy for him that he’s healthy… Hopefully he can come back and elevate this team.” Lillard himself acknowledged the pressure of returning to competitive play, noting, “I’ve got to go out there and break myself in.”

As the Bucks prepare to face the Pacers, coach Carlisle remains wary of Lillard’s effect on the game. He stated, “Never underestimate greatness,” emphasizing Lillard’s skills despite his recent absence.