Overview

• Damian Lillard had surgery on May 2, 2025, to repair his torn left Achilles tendon, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles with consultation from Bucks orthopedic surgeon Dr. Carole Vetter.
• The injury occurred early in Game 4 of the Bucks' first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, which Milwaukee ultimately lost in five games.
• Lillard had recently returned to play after missing 14 regular-season games due to deep vein thrombosis, which required blood-thinning treatment.
• Recovery from Achilles surgery typically takes six to twelve months, with NBA players averaging around ten months, leaving Lillard’s availability for the 2025-26 season uncertain.
• The Bucks now face critical roster and salary cap decisions as they plan around Lillard’s recovery and aim to build a competitive team with Giannis Antetokounmpo.