Damian Lillard's season-ending injury leaves Question Mark over Bucks vs. Pacers Game 5, with focus shifting to Milwaukee's roster adjustments
Belter Bullets: Damian Lillard's Miles-Long Misfortune in the 2025 NBA Playoffs!
The 2025 NBA Playoffs saw a swifter-than-expected end for Damian Lillard. His journey lasted merely three games, finishing in a heartbreaking ride due to a season-ending Achilles tear injury in Game 4 on the last Sunday.
Limping into the first-round matchup against the Indiana Pacers, Lillard's absence leaves the Milwaukee Bucks with a daunting challenge ahead as they take to the court this Tuesday night on the road.
The Pacers are thirsty for closure, their sights set on wrapping up their first-round duty with the Cleveland Cavaliers comin' at 'em in the second round.
Hungry for the latest game injury updates? Let's dive in!
Bucks' Game 5 Injury Status
Apart from Tyler Smith, who is questionable due to an ankle injury, the Bucks' roster appears relatively unscathed. However, Smith hasn't seen court time since their April 13 regular-season clash with the Detroit Pistons at home.
With Lillard out, Giannis Antetokounmpo gears up for an even bigger burden. He's already averaging a whopping 33.8 points on a jaw-dropping 62.2 field-goal percentage in their series against the Pacers. Support from stars like Gary Trent Jr., Bobby Portis, Kevin Porter Jr., Brook Lopez, and Kule Kuzma will be crucial as they attempt to reach the next round.
Pacers' Game 5 Injury Insights
The Pacers have three injured players on their report, including Isaiah Jackson, who's been out since November due to an Achilles tendon tear.
Aaron Nesmith will likely play with a back issue, while Bennedict Mathurin remains questionable due to an abdominal bruise. The latter's injury forced him to sit out the previous game.
Tune in as the Bucks and the Pacers duke it out in Game 5! Can the Bucks battle back without Lillard, or will the Pacers finish their first-round business? Only time will tell!
Sources:1. Sporting News2. CBS Sports
- In the wake of Damian Lillard's season-ending Achilles tear injury during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, the race for the playoffs' next round is heating up.
- With Lillard out for the rest of the season, the Bucks are bracing for a tough Game 5 against the Pacers, and Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to shoulder an even heavier burden.
- Meanwhile, the Pacers have their own injury concerns, with Aaron Nesmith dealing with a back issue, and Bennedict Mathurin Questionable due to an abdominal bruise.
- Odds-makers are keeping a close eye on the Bucks' prospects without Lillard, as they face the Pacers in their playoff fight for survival.
- Rumors circulate that Masai Ujiri, President of Toronto Raptors, could be a potential suitor for the Portland Trail Blazers in the offseason, with the aim of landing Lillard as a key addition for a sports basketball stack.
- The 2025 NBA season is proving to be one of the most unpredictable yet, with an increased focus on injury reports and the impact they have on team strategies throughout the playoffs.
