Damian Lillard's presence is missed on the court as he remains sidelined due to deep vein thrombosis in his right calf, a condition that has kept him out of 12 consecutive games. Lillard's injury was diagnosed after he played against the Golden State Warriors on March 18, and since then, his health has been closely monitored. Although Lillard has been attending games, the Bucks coaching staff has decided against allowing him to travel for additional games to avoid complications.

Head coach Doc Rivers expressed cautious optimism, noting that Lillard's medical reports have improved, yet he cautioned that recovery from such conditions can be prolonged, potentially taking months. The Bucks have not ruled him out for the playoffs, set to begin on April 19 or 20. Lillard's absence could be a significant setback for the team, as he averaged 31.3 points in the playoffs last season, and missing another postseason would be a blow to both Lillard and the franchise.

The Milwaukee Bucks are looking to extend their winning streak to five games against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Fiserv Forum. Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as probable with left shoulder tendinopathy but is expected to play, having missed the previous game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Milwaukee’s squad is managing several injuries, including Damian Lillard and Jericho Sims, while Pat Connaughton’s status remains questionable due to an ankle issue.

As the playoffs approach, the Bucks are focusing on securing a good position, currently 5th in the Eastern Conference. The game is set for 7 p.m. and will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin. Oddsmakers have made the Bucks a 5.5-point underdog, setting the over/under at 222.5 points.

Bobby Portis is set to return to the Milwaukee Bucks after a 25-game suspension that sidelined him since the All-Star break. The forward was suspended for testing positive for Tramadol, a violation of the league's anti-drug program. Portis expressed his frustration and confusion over the suspension, claiming he took the substance unintentionally, mistaking it for Toradol, a permitted medication he had used previously.

His absence coincided with personal hardships, including the loss of his grandmother and a burglary at his home. Despite these challenges, Portis remained focused on basketball, stating gratitude for his support system and the opportunity to work on his game. His return comes as the Bucks aim to solidify their playoff positioning, currently sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference with four games remaining. Teammate Kyle Kuzma emphasized Portis' crucial role in the team's identity and morale, hinting at the need to quickly build chemistry as they prepare for the playoffs.

Joe Cronin, the general manager of the Portland Trail Blazers, has secured a multi-year extension as announced by the team. Since taking over in December 2021, he has steered the Blazers through a significant transition, including trading away stars Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. The team is now focused on rebuilding with young talents such as Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, Deni Avdija, and Toumani Camara. Owner Jody Allen praised Cronin's leadership and vision, expressing excitement for the future of the franchise.

Despite being eliminated from the postseason with a 35-44 record, the Blazers showed competitive spirit, boasting the fourth-best defense in the league since January 19. Cronin faces critical offseason decisions regarding players like Jerami Grant and Anfernee Simons and is anticipated to extend Coach Chauncey Billups’ contract due to the team's recent improvements.

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.