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Toronto, ON – After missing the recent game against the Indiana Pacers, Milwaukee Bucks’ star guard Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with a torn Achilles. This setback comes shortly after he returned from a deep vein thrombosis injury, which can lead to the formation of blood clots. Now approaching his 35th birthday, Lillard faces yet another challenge in his professional career.
The timing of Lillard’s Achilles injury raises concerns about his future performance once he returns to the NBA. Historical data shows that older players have successfully bounced back from similar injuries, and fans remain hopeful that Lillard will join this group. Notable examples include Klay Thompson and Kevin Durant, both of whom dealt with Achilles injuries that kept them off the court for extended periods.
Klay Thompson sustained his Achilles injury in November 2020 and made a comeback in January 2022. Since his return, Thompson has participated in at least 69 games each season, averaging over 27 minutes of play per outing. Although he exhibited changes in his playing style post-injury, he has still effectively contributed to his team’s success.
Meanwhile, Kevin Durant suffered his Achilles injury during the NBA Finals and returned to action after 552 days of recovery. Since his return, Durant has performed at an All-NBA level. While he exhibited some decreased quickness following his injury, he has maintained high performance for several seasons, showcasing resilience and skill.
However, it’s essential to note that both Thompson and Durant were younger at the time of their injuries, in their early 30s, while Lillard is currently navigating his mid-30s. The accumulated wear on Lillard’s body may complicate his recovery. Nonetheless, there remains optimism that he can return to a form reminiscent of his former self.
Source
www.forbes.com