Damian Lillard, the Milwaukee Bucks star, may be able to return to NBA action within 8 to 10 months following his torn Achilles injury, which occurred during the first round of the recent playoffs. Reports emerging on The Stephen A. Smith Show from ESPN’s Shams Charania suggest that Lillard could be back on the court by the next postseason, offering hope for a quicker recovery than initially expected.
There has been some optimism that potentially he could be back within that 8-10 month period,
Charania said (9:40 mark).
Details Surrounding Lillard’s Injury and Recovery
Lillard suffered the significant injury in Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers toward the end of April and underwent surgery just days later. While the Achilles tear is a major setback, the possibility of a return within a year is encouraging given the variable timeline such injuries typically require. The prospect of Lillard stepping onto the court next season depends on how well his rehabilitation progresses.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Future May Be Linked to Lillard’s Status
This news about Lillard’s recovery coincides with reports suggesting Giannis Antetokounmpo is considering a trade during the offseason. If Lillard is expected to suit up again by next year’s playoffs, it could influence Giannis’s decision to remain with the Bucks, hoping the team can sustain its championship aspirations with Lillard healthy and available.
Uncertainties About Lillard’s Post-Injury Performance
Even if Lillard returns next season, questions remain regarding how fully he will regain his former quickness and agility, especially as he approaches 35 years old. Recovery from an Achilles tear at this stage in a player’s career can significantly affect mobility and performance, leaving his impact on the Bucks still uncertain.