Damian Lillard’s chapter with the Milwaukee Bucks has been featured by devastating injuries, with the latest being his season-ending left torn Achilles in Game 4 of the first round.
But his latest comments can give those in Milwaukee positivity for a possible return and resurgence. Bucks coach Doc Rivers said the nine-time All-Star promised to persevere through his injuries prior to Game 5 Tuesday night.
"He said two things, which I love," Rivers said to the Associated Press. "The first one, he just said, 'I can't believe I'm here.' Then the second one is 'I'm not going out this way.' I can guarantee you he won't, and that's what I meant about his resolve."
It certainly hasn’t been easy for Lillard during his time with the Bucks. He strained Achilles against the Pacers last postseason, sidelining him for two games in the first round. He then suffered a blood clot in his right calf this season that kept him away from the court for more than a month.
Lillard bounced back from both of those injuries, which should illustrate his bounceback tendencies amid adversity. In addition to overcoming injuries, the high-level scorer probably wants to unleash his true playoff form. He averaged just seven points on 22.2 percent shooting this postseason, far below the capability fans know he has as a playoff performer.
"He's already talking about his return and being better and being ready,” Rivers said. “We had a long talk about that today as well."
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