Damian Lillard Returns to Action, But Bucks Fall to Pacers in Game 2
In a highly anticipated matchup, Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard made his return to action on Tuesday, but it wasn’t enough to help his team secure a win against the Indiana Pacers in Game 2 of their first-round series. The Pacers emerged victorious, taking a 123-115 win at home.
According to a report by the NBA, Lillard scored 14 points in his first game back from deep vein thrombosis in his right calf. He played 37 minutes, shooting 4 of 13 from the field. This was his first game action since March 18 and his first playoff game alongside teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had a standout performance with 34 points, 18 rebounds, and seven assists.
The Pacers were led by Pascal Siakam, who finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds, while Tyrese Haliburton added 21 points and 12 assists to the team’s tally. The Pacers have now won five of their last six playoff games against the Bucks and dominated Game 2 from start to finish, never trailing in the contest.
It’s worth noting that the Pacers had lost three of their four regular-season games against the Bucks, but they showed a marked improvement in this playoff matchup. The two teams will meet again on Friday in Game 3, which will be played in Milwaukee. The series is shaping up to be a closely contested one, with both teams eager to gain the upper hand.
In addition to Lillard and Antetokounmpo, Bobby Portis Jr. also had a strong game for the Bucks, finishing with 28 points, including six 3-pointers, and 12 rebounds. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome the Pacers’ balanced attack and secure a win for Milwaukee.
As reported by the NBA, the Bucks will look to regroup and come back stronger in Game 3. The return of Lillard to the lineup is a significant boost for the team, and they will hope that he can continue to make an impact as the series progresses.
The Pacers’ win in Game 2 has set up an intriguing matchup heading into Game 3. With both teams evenly matched, it’s difficult to predict who will emerge victorious. One thing is certain, however: the series will go down to the wire, and fans can expect an intense and closely contested battle between two evenly matched teams. The NBA will continue to provide updates on the series as it unfolds.
