Lillard out indefinitely with blood clot in leg

Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, the team announced Tuesday.

The 34-year-old was placed on blood-thinning medication and will receive regular testing.

"It's unfortunate that something outside of my control would come up," Lillard told NBA insider Chris Haynes. "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."

Lillard was sidelined for Milwaukee's last three contests with a right calf strain. The Bucks went 2-1 in those games.

"Damian's health is our No. 1 priority," Bucks general manager Jon Horst said. "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 believe the blood clots are "very unlikely to occur again," according to the Bucks' statement.

There's a great deal of optimism that Lillard will be able to return this season, sources told The Athletic's Eric Nehm and Sam Amick.

Lillard has averaged 24.9 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in 58 games this season.

San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama was also diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis - although in his shoulder - just after the All-Star break. The Frenchman was ruled out for the rest of the campaign.

Toronto Raptors wing Brandon Ingram was diagnosed with blood clots in 2018-19 while a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, and Detroit Pistons guard Ausar Thompson had his 2023-24 campaign cut short with a similar issue. Both players have resumed their careers.

The Bucks are fifth in the East with a 40-31 record and are just a half-game up on the surging Detroit Pistons. They'll face the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday.