The Milwaukee Bucks find themselves in a precarious position in their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, trailing 2-1. The team announced a significant setback for Game 4: both Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, their star players, will be absent due to injuries. This development adds tension to an already intense series.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been out since April 10 with a calf strain, missing five consecutive games. The situation worsened when Damian Lillard aggravated an Achilles injury during the dramatic Game 3, which the Bucks lost in overtime, 121-118. Despite his injury, Lillard continued to play, but his performance was notably hindered in the crucial moments. The Pacers seized the opportunity, with Tyrese Haliburton landing a game-winning and-1 floater, tipping the series in their favor.
With their backs against the wall, the Bucks are now relying on players like Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, and Brook Lopez to step up in the absence of their leading duo. Lillard’s contribution has been critical, especially with Antetokounmpo sidelined, averaging impressive stats in the playoffs. However, Milwaukee’s track record without Lillard this season has been concerning, with only one win in nine games.
As the Bucks face this challenging game without their key players, the pressure is on for the rest of the team to rise to the occasion and even the series.
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