Damian Lillard Injury Status For Bucks vs. Hawks: Will Milwaukee’s Star Play?
Milwaukee Bucks fans are eager to see how their revamped squad performs following the trade deadline, but one key question remains—will nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard suit up against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night?
Lillard’s Injury Status
According to the latest NBA injury report, Lillard is listed as probable to play through a sore left groin. The 6-foot-2 veteran has been instrumental for the Bucks this season, averaging 25.1 points, 7.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds while maintaining a strong .447/.379/.921 shooting split.
However, Lillard isn’t the only Bucks star dealing with injury concerns. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the team’s leading force, is listed as questionable due to tightness in his left calf, while veteran center Brook Lopez is probable with a left knee contusion. Additionally, two-way players Liam Robbins and Stanley Umude remain with the Bucks’ G League affiliate, the Wisconsin Herd.
Milwaukee’s Roster Shake-Up & Trade Impact
The Bucks (27-22) have struggled recently, dropping four of their last five games. Looking to regain momentum, Milwaukee made significant roster moves ahead of the NBA trade deadline.
The biggest move was trading Khris Middleton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Kyle Kuzma, Jericho Sims, and Kevin Porter Jr. While these additions could boost the team’s depth, they are yet to be listed on the Bucks’ active roster. When Kuzma officially joins, he is expected to replace Taurean Prince in the starting lineup.
Hawks’ Injury Concerns & New Acquisitions
The Atlanta Hawks (23-28) also underwent major roster changes, parting ways with De’Andre Hunter, Bogdan Bogdanovic, David Roddy, and Cody Zeller while acquiring Bones Hyland, Terance Mann, Caris LeVert, and Georges Niang. However, Hyland is out, and the others remain questionable as their trades are finalized.
Key injuries could impact Atlanta’s performance. Trae Young (right Achilles tendinitis) is probable, but the Hawks will be without their breakout forward Jalen Johnson (shoulder surgery) and defensive anchor Clint Capela (personal reasons).
Bucks vs. Hawks: Who Has the Edge?
With both teams dealing with injury uncertainties and roster shake-ups, Friday’s matchup could come down to availability. The Bucks will likely have an edge if at least two of their stars—Lillard, Giannis, or Lopez—are on the floor.
Another key factor? Milwaukee’s road record (10-14) and Atlanta’s home performance (11-12) suggest a close contest. However, the Hawks’ depleted lineup might struggle to match the Bucks’ firepower.
Game Details:
- Matchup: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Atlanta Hawks
- Date & Time: Friday, 7:00 p.m. EST
- Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
- Injury Status: Lillard (Probable), Giannis (Questionable), Lopez (Probable)
Will Lillard and Giannis take the floor together, or will Milwaukee need to rely on its new acquisitions sooner than expected? Stay tuned as the Bucks look to bounce back in a crucial Eastern Conference battle.
