Short answer: The latest widely reported reason is a health-related absence for Damian Lillard, with various outlets noting injury/medical reasons leading to him not playing, including a hamstring issue earlier and more recently a blood-clot related concern that affected playoff availability.
Here’s a concise update with context and how to read the current news:
If you’d like, I can search for the very latest item from reputable sources (e.g., official Bucks releases, ESPN, Yahoo Sports, or The Athletic) and summarize the current stance with direct citations.
Sources
The Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks are set to square off this weekend to open the NBA playoffs. This is a rematch between the two teams from last season where Indiana dispatched the Bucks in six…
www.si.comPORTLAND, Ore.—Don't be surprised if Damian Lillard has played his last game of the 2021-22 NBA season.
bleacherreport.comSee all the up-to-the-minute news, NBA stats, fantasy outlook, game logs, and more for Damian Lillard from our experts here at RotoWire! Read more.
www.rotowire.comLillard, once the face of loyalty in the NBA, has deserved a better ending than he's gotten
www.cbssports.comDamian Lillard will not play in the Milwaukee Bucks' 2025 NBA Playoffs opener against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday. Lillard, who last played on Mar.
www.sportskeeda.comMilwaukee Bucks star guard Damian Lillard has been ruled out for tonight's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
www.sportskeeda.comWhile Lillard won the 2026 3-point contest, he's not set to return to the court for some time.
www.sportingnews.comMilwaukee Bucks star Point Guard Damian Lillard has been cleared of a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) he has been dealing with since March 18. When will he return and how will he look on the hardwood?
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