Milwaukee Bucks DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard (calf) has been cleared of deep vein thrombosis and is no longer on blood-thinning medication. This marks a significant step in his return to the lineup. Although Lillard is expected to be out for Saturday's Game 1 against the Indiana Pacers, his comeback appears to be around the corner. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said on Thursday that there is a "very good chance" Lillard will play in the postseason. The nine-time All-Star averaged 24.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.2 steals during the regular season.

Milwaukee Bucks center Jericho Sims (thumb) is on track to return to the lineup for the start of the 2025 NBA Playoffs. The 26-year-old big man missed the final month of the regular season after undergoing thumb surgery. On Tuesday, Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said he is "pretty sure" Sims will be available for the team's first-round series against the Indiana Pacers, which begins on Saturday. Sims has averaged 2.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in 15.0 minutes with the Bucks. However, with Bobby Portis back from suspension, the former Knick will likely have a smaller role during the postseason.

Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard (calf) will not be available for the start of the 2025 playoffs. Sources have told ESPN's Shams Charania that doctors examining Lillard believe he is making significant progress, but the Bucks star has not yet been cleared to resume full basketball activities. The team announced Tuesday that Lillard had made "significant improvement on his deep vein thrombosis" and that he will increase his on-court activity. However, Lillard remains without a timetable for his return. Ryan Rollins appears to be penciled in for another start when Milwaukee begins its first-round series against the Indiana Pacers on Saturday. During Lillard's absence, Kevin Porter Jr. has also seen an increase in fantasy value.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis (rest) won't suit up against Detroit on Sunday. He had a 17-point, 10-rebound double-double when these clubs met on Friday evening. However, his services won't be needed for this one, especially since Milwaukee has nothing to gain or lose on Sunday. Brook Lopez (rest) also won't play, and Giannis Antetokounmpo (shoulder) is doubtful. As such, Kyle Kuzma (ankle), who is probable, should get some meaningful minutes. Pete Nance and Chris Livingston may also be worth considering for DFS lineups.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Kyle Kuzma (ankle) is probable for Sunday's rematch with the Pistons. Brook Lopez (rest) and Bobby Portis (rest) won't play, and Giannis Antetokounmpo (shoulder) is doubtful. As a result, Kuzma could bounce between the four and five spots. Although he might see fewer minutes than normal, he should be more productive than usual while he is out there, assuming he gets the green light to suit up.