Damian Lillard Sparks Controversy with Technical Foul as Bucks Struggle in Playoff Loss to Pacers; Return Expected Soon to Boost Team’s Fading Hopes

Damian Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks’ star guard, was absent from the team’s lineup for Game 1 of their playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, continuing his recovery from a blood clot in his right calf. Although Lillard didn’t step onto the court, he made his presence known in the game’s box score. Late in the Bucks’ 117-98 loss, Lillard was issued a technical foul after leaving the bench during a challenge. The incident occurred when he exchanged words with Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton. Pascal Siakam, who was also engaged in some verbal back-and-forth with the Bucks, was handed a technical as well.

Lillard is expected to return to the series soon, potentially as early as Game 2 on Tuesday, after being cleared to resume basketball activities. His recovery from deep vein thrombosis has been impressive, and the Bucks will need him back in the lineup, especially after a dismal shooting performance in Game 1. The team struggled mightily from beyond the arc, shooting a mere 12.5% from three-point range in the first half, a glaring weakness they hope Lillard’s return can address.