Damian Lillard's absence due to deep vein thrombosis could significantly impact the Milwaukee Bucks as they prepare for the playoffs. With Lillard sidelined for the last eight games, Coach Doc Rivers expressed growing optimism about his return this season. The Bucks currently sit tied for the 5/6 seed in the Eastern Conference, and they need Lillard's 24.9 points and 7.1 assists per game to secure a favorable playoff position.

The Bucks have struggled without Lillard, posting a 4-4 record in his absence, and their hopes hinge on reuniting Lillard with Giannis Antetokounmpo. Milwaukee's net rating improves considerably when both stars are on the court, highlighting their combined potential to elevate the team's performance and playoff aspirations.

Giannis Antetokounmpo made history with an extraordinary performance against the Philadelphia 76ers, becoming the first player in NBA history to achieve 35 points, 20 assists, and 15 rebounds in a single game. His impressive stat line included 35 points, 20 assists, and 17 rebounds on 12-of-19 shooting, leading the Bucks to a 126-113 victory. Antetokounmpo's contributions were crucial as he either scored or assisted on 32 of the team’s 46 field goals, helping the Bucks overcome a 17-point deficit.

Although it has been five seasons since he last won the MVP award, his current statistics show he’s performing at an elite level, leading in both made field goals and free throw attempts per game, even surpassing his previous MVP seasons. With fellow star Damian Lillard sidelined due to health issues, Antetokounmpo has taken on even more responsibilities to keep the Bucks competitive in the Eastern Conference, currently tied for fifth place.

The Philadelphia 76ers faced a tough loss against the Milwaukee Bucks, as they aimed to secure a favorable draft position by extending their losing streak to ten games. Despite a remarkable performance by rookie Adem Bona, who scored a career-high 28 points, the Sixers fell short in the match, losing 126-113. Head coach Nick Nurse was ejected after receiving two technical fouls in quick succession, further amplifying the team's struggles. The loss leaves the Sixers with a 23-54 record.

Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo showcased his MVP-caliber talent with 35 points, 17 rebounds, and a career-high 20 assists, achieving his 53rd triple-double. With this victory, the Bucks improved to 42-34, snapping a four-game losing streak. The game also marked a milestone for former Sixers coach Doc Rivers, who surpassed Phil Jackson for seventh place on the all-time coaching wins list. The Sixers, already missing key players due to injuries, welcomed new addition Colin Castleton on a 10-day contract.

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers provided an optimistic update on Damian Lillard, who is recovering from deep vein thrombosis in his calf. Rivers noted that Lillard, absent for the eighth consecutive game, is feeling good and that there’s "much more hope today" for his return this season. The Bucks chose not to take Lillard on their road trip to avoid exacerbating the injury.

As the regular season approaches its conclusion, Rivers acknowledged the team is bracing for the possibility of Lillard being sidelined for the playoffs. They are focusing on adjusting their strategies without him, particularly managing Giannis Antetokounmpo's minutes. The Bucks are currently in a tight race for playoff positioning, needing to nab the fifth seed to secure a more favorable postseason route. Rivers highlighted the need to address turnover issues that have plagued the team, stressing that efficiency in shot attempts will be pivotal moving forward.

Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers left the bench during the game against the Philadelphia 76ers due to illness. The Bucks were leading 61-59 at the half when Rivers decided to return to his office. Despite his absence, assistant coach Darvin Ham stepped in effectively to manage the team for the remainder of the game. Rivers monitored from a distance, and the team will provide updates on his health as needed.