The Milwaukee Bucks will be without All-Star Damian Lillard indefinitely after he was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, Afrosport reports.
The Bucks confirmed Lillard’s absence late on Tuesday, and the 34-year-old is reportedly on blood-thinning medication to treat the condition.
Lillard becomes the second NBA player that has had to be shut down this season due to the condition, joining San Antonio Spurs center Victor Wembanyama, whose season was cut short earlier in the year.
“Damian’s health is our No. 1 priority,” said Bucks general manager Jon Horst in a statement. “We will support him as he moves through this weekly process of strict criteria to ensure that it is safe for him to return to play.
“Doctors have indicated that his situation is very unlikely to occur again. We are thankful that this was identified and medicated quickly, which helps with the recovery.”
The seven-time All-Star has missed Milwaukee’s last three games against the Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns.
“It’s unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up,” Lillard said in a statement to NBA reporter Chris Haynes. “Along with the Bucks’ medical staff, our priorities are to protect my health and safety. As much as I love basketball, I need to be there for my kids and my family.
“I’m grateful the Bucks acted quickly on this. They’ve been supportive and proactive throughout this process. I look forward to moving past this and continuing my career.”
He is averaging 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists in 36.1 minutes per game across 58 contests this season for Milwaukee.
Lillard’s extended absence comes at a crucial point in the season for the Bucks, who are preparing for the playoffs and are fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 40-31 record.
