Damian Lillard was diagnosed with a deep vein thrombosis — also known as blood clots — in his right calf and will be out indefinitely, the Bucks said in a statement Tuesday.
Lillard, 34, was put on blood-thinning medication and will be tested regularly.
“It’s unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up,” the hooper told The Athletic through a team spokesperson. “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.”
The outlet reported that a league source had said there was optimism Lillard would be able to play again this season.
Lillard, a nine-time NBA All-Star, has averaged 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game this year.
“Damian’s health is our No. 1 priority,” general manager Jon Horst said 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.”
Lillard was dealing with right calf soreness and missed the last three games.
Concern had started to increase on Thursday when he missed a game against the Lakers and was dealing with discomfort and pain that went beyond a calf strain.
He met with five of the top hematologists in the country and eventually started taking blood thinners on Friday, according to The Athletic.
Lillard is in his 13th NBA season and second with Milwaukee.
