Damian Lillard’s deep vein thrombosis diagnosis seemed to signal the end of the Bucks’ title hopes, but miracles do happen. Just last week, we learned that Dame was off the blood-thinning medication. Meaning, he was cleared to resume practicing and eventually playing for the Bucks, but when, is still the question? And after the Bucks dropped the ball in the first game, losing 117-98 in game 1 of the Playoffs against Indiana, one thing became clear as day to us.

The Milwaukee Bucks need Damian Lillard if they want to advance further in the Playoffs. But how far along is Dame in his recovery? Can he step back onto the court for the Bucks in Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers? Let’s find an answer to those questions as we look at their latest injury report.

Milwaukee Bucks Injury Report – Will Damian Lillard play in Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers?

“We didn’t do a lot of live stuff today, but he did everything today,” said Doc Rivers about Dame after the Bucks’ practice on Monday. “He’s just progressing. He looks good,” finished the Bucks’ head coach. It seems in light of Dame resuming full practice with the team, his status on the Bucks’ injury report has been upgraded, and he will finally make a comeback. This is still a positive sign for the Milwaukee Bucks as the series against Indiana progresses.

The only player on the injury report for the Milwaukee Bucks is Tyler Smith. The rookie is OUT for a second consecutive game because of a sprained left ankle. However, given his limited minutes and impact, it’s not like his absence will really affect the Bucks adversely in this matchup.

However, Damian Lillard’s progress is quite promising for the Bucks. And here’s how they could benefit from his return against the Pacers after a horrid Game 1.

Can Dame’s return provide a turnaround in the Bucks’ fortunes?

Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers was a horrible showing for any Milwaukee player not named Giannis Antetokounmpo (we’ll get to him soon!). As a team, they shot only 6-37 from beyond the arc and made 35 of their 84 field goal attempts. Shooting at 24.3% and 41.7% on 3-pointers and field goals simply won’t cut it in the postseason. And this is one of the biggest threats that Dame brings to the Bucks’ offense. His elite shooting not only results in more points for the Bucks, but it also frees up opportunities for his team to get off more quality shots.

Speaking of freeing up other players, let’s talk Giannis now. It was abundantly clear that he needed some backup against the Indiana Pacers. Despite his incredible 36 points and 12 rebounds, he simply couldn’t carry the burden alone. Lillard averaged just under 25 points in the regular season, and his return will surely ease the burden on Giannis once he’s back.

Even if Dame doesn’t have the best game, his mere presence forces the opposition to acknowledge him. Or they pay the price of leaving one of the best shooters in the game out in the open. Moreover, Dame can help the Bucks improve in another key area.

Namely, their movement of the ball. The Bucks weren’t at their best when it came to moving the ball against the Pacers. And by the end of the game, they only had 15 assists to the Pacers’ 28. Now, had they scored a lot of unassisted baskets, that would’ve been less alarming. Sadly, that’s not what happened. Averaging 7.1 assists per game, the Bucks’ point guard will surely be a massive asset to the team in getting some dimes.

All in all, while 34-year-old’s return in Game 2 isn’t set in stone, his playing remains a real possibility. However, Damian Lillard, finally back on the court for the Milwaukee Bucks, might pose a real threat to the Pacers.