Bucks' Damian Lillard Advances Rehab Following Torn Achilles Injury

Damian Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon during the 2025 NBA playoffs, leading to surgery and the start of a challenging 9-12 month rehabilitation process. Despite the severity of the injury and his age of 34, Lillard has shown early signs of progress, including light mobility exercises and walking on an AlterG treadmill, which reduces weight impact during rehab. The injury has cast doubts on the Milwaukee Bucks' future, as Lillard's expected absence for the 2025-26 season impacts the team's championship aspirations and fuels trade rumors involving Giannis Antetokounmpo. Lillard's resilience and work ethic provide hope for a possible return, though medical experts caution that recovery from such an injury is lengthy and demanding, especially for a guard relying on agility and quickness. Lillard's current rehab status and public appearances, such as attending a WNBA game with a leg brace, indicate gradual progress but no clear timeline for his NBA return. The Bucks face a critical offseason as they navigate Lillard's recovery and the potential decisions of their star players to remain competitive.