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In the world of professional basketball, few names resonate as strongly as Damian Lillard’s. Known for his incredible skills on the court and his presence in the music industry, Damian Lillard, also known as Dame, has been a force to be reckoned with in both realms. However, recently, there has been a shadow cast over his career due to persistent calf issues. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of what happened to Damian Lillard and why he’s not playing.
The Ongoing Calf Saga
Damian Lillard’s journey with calf problems began last season during his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers. This persistent calf injury has plagued him ever since, leading to his absence from important games, including the recent matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The calf issues were so severe that they caused the Blazers to rest Lillard last season, ultimately resulting in the team missing the playoffs. Despite his incredible performance for the Bucks, where he played a pivotal role in securing a recent win against the Detroit Pistons, his calf problems continue to be a source of concern.
Departure from the Blazers
Adding to the intrigue, Damian Lillard parted ways with the Portland Trail Blazers after an illustrious 11-season career with the team. His departure was accompanied by a trade request, with Lillard seeking a move to a contending team. This significant transition marked a new chapter in his basketball journey and left Blazers fans with mixed emotions.
Optimism for Reconciliation
While Damian Lillard’s departure was a significant shakeup for the Blazers, there is still optimism for reconciliation in the future. Blazers coach Chauncey Billups has been vocal about his belief in the possibility of Lillard’s return. He acknowledges the unprecedented contributions that Lillard has made to the team and the unique bond between the star player and the organization.
A Shift in Priorities
With Damian Lillard no longer in the picture, the Blazers have shifted their focus to developing young talent for a potential postseason return. This change in priorities signifies a new direction for the team, as they aim to build a roster that can compete at the highest level in the future.
Who is Damian Lillard?
Before we dive deeper into the specifics of Damian Lillard’s career and injury, let’s take a moment to get to know the man behind the headlines.
Damian Lillard, also known as Dame, is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. His journey to the NBA began during his college basketball stint with the Weber State Wildcats, where he earned third-team All-American honors in 2012.
Selected sixth overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2012 NBA draft, Lillard wasted no time making an impact. He swiftly became the NBA Rookie of the Year and earned a reputation for his clutch performances. Notably, he holds the distinction of being the only player in Trail Blazers history with seven NBA All-Star and All-NBA Team selections.
Beyond his basketball prowess, Damian Lillard showcases his musical talents under the alias Dame D.O.L.L.A. He has released multiple albums, including “The Letter O” (2016), “Confirmed” (2017), “Big D.O.L.L.A.” (2019), and “Different On Levels The Lord Allowed” (2021). In October 2021, he received the honor of being included in the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, solidifying his status among the NBA’s greatest.
Damian Lillard’s Basketball Journey
Damian Lillard’s basketball journey is a testament to resilience, excellence, and evolution. Starting at Oakland High School, he faced challenges but emerged as a star, eventually earning a spot at Weber State. Despite being a two-star recruit, Lillard’s college career saw him flourish, setting the stage for his NBA entry in 2012 with the Portland Trail Blazers. In his rookie season, he secured the prestigious Rookie of the Year award.
Over the years, Lillard’s impact on the Trail Blazers was profound, earning multiple All-Star selections and All-NBA Team honors. He became a linchpin for the team’s success, breaking records and garnering accolades like the Magic Johnson Award for media conduct. Notably, he secured a spot on the All-NBA First Team in 2017-18, showcasing his consistency and dedication.
The 2018–19 season was a highlight, with Lillard leading the Trail Blazers to the Western Conference Finals, displaying exceptional scoring abilities. Subsequent seasons witnessed career-high performances, including a remarkable 61-point game in 2020. Lillard’s resilience shone through during the 2020–21 season, marked by NBA Teammate of the Year honors and a memorable 55-point playoff game.
In 2021–22, injuries marred his season, but the 2022–23 comeback was spectacular, with Lillard becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. A trade to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023 added a new chapter, and his debut set a franchise record. Damian Lillard’s career is a testament to his scoring prowess, accolades, and an enduring impact on the court, capturing the essence of a basketball icon.
Damian Lillard’s Age and Versatility
As of 2023, Damian Lillard, born on July 15, 1990, is 33 years old. His age signifies not only a wealth of experience on the basketball court but also his versatility as an artist. Lillard remains a dynamic force in the NBA, serving as a premier point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks. Simultaneously, he maintains his status as a celebrated hip-hop artist known by his stage name, Dame D.O.L.L.A.
Damian Lillard’s Music Career
Damian Lillard’s talents extend beyond the basketball court into the realm of music. Operating under the alias Dame D.O.L.L.A. (Different On Levels the Lord Allows), he embarked on a hip-hop journey influenced by family ties and Oakland’s rap scene. Lillard initiated the “Four Bar Friday” trend on social media, fostering a community of rap enthusiasts.
His musical debut came in July 2015 with “Soldier in the Game,” marking the inception of a career that evolved with albums like “The Letter O” (2016), “Confirmed” (2017), and “Big D.O.L.L.A.” (2019). He also collaborated with industry heavyweights on his projects. Beyond personal projects, Lillard founded Front Page Music, where he showcased his cousin Brookfield Duece.
One of his most poignant tracks, “Kobe” (2020), featuring Snoop Dogg and Derrick Milano, paid homage to the late Kobe Bryant. This track not only honored a basketball legend but also earned a place on the NBA 2K21 soundtrack, solidifying Lillard’s dual impact in the realms of basketball and music.
Damian Lillard’s Impressive Stats
Let’s take a closer look at Damian Lillard’s basketball stats to appreciate the remarkable numbers he has achieved throughout his career.
2023-24 Season (Milwaukee Bucks):
– Games Played: 7
– Minutes per Game: 33.7
– Points per Game: 24.3
– Field Goal Percentage
: 40.0%
– 3-Point Percentage: 29.3%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.4
– Assists per Game: 4.7
– Steals per Game: 1.1
2022-23 Season (Portland Trail Blazers):
– Games Played: 58
– Minutes per Game: 36.3
– Points per Game: 32.2
– Field Goal Percentage: 46.3%
– 3-Point Percentage: 37.1%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.8
– Assists per Game: 7.3
– Steals per Game: 0.9
2021-22 Season (Portland Trail Blazers):
– Games Played: 29
– Minutes per Game: 36.4
– Points per Game: 24.0
– Field Goal Percentage: 40.2%
– 3-Point Percentage: 32.4%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.1
– Assists per Game: 7.3
– Steals per Game: 0.6
2020-21 Season (Portland Trail Blazers):
– Games Played: 67
– Minutes per Game: 35.8
– Points per Game: 28.8
– Field Goal Percentage: 45.1%
– 3-Point Percentage: 39.1%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.2
– Assists per Game: 7.5
– Steals per Game: 0.9
2019-20 Season (Portland Trail Blazers):
– Games Played: 66
– Minutes per Game: 37.5
– Points per Game: 30.0
– Field Goal Percentage: 46.3%
– 3-Point Percentage: 40.1%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.3
– Assists per Game: 8.0
– Steals per Game: 1.1
Career Total:
– Games Played: 776
– Minutes per Game: 36.3
– Points per Game: 25.2
– Field Goal Percentage: 43.9%
– 3-Point Percentage: 37.2%
– Rebounds per Game: 4.2
– Assists per Game: 6.7
– Steals per Game: 1.0
Why is Damian Lillard Not Playing?
Now, let’s address the pressing question: Why is Damian Lillard not playing? According to reports from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Damian Lillard is currently sidelined due to a calf injury. This injury has forced him to miss important games and poses a significant challenge for the Milwaukee Bucks’ coach, Adrian Griffin.
These calf issues have persisted since Lillard’s time with the Portland Trail Blazers last season, impacting his availability for crucial games. His absence has opened up playing opportunities for other players, including Cameron Payne and potentially Lindell Wigginton. The Bucks will rely more on Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo for ball handling in Lillard’s absence, highlighting the team’s adaptability to unforeseen challenges on the court.
Conclusion
Damian Lillard’s journey in both basketball and music has been marked by resilience, excellence, and evolution. His ongoing battle with calf issues and recent departure from the Portland Trail Blazers have left fans with questions and anticipation for what’s to come. Despite the challenges he faces, Lillard’s impact on the game of basketball and the music industry remains undeniable. We eagerly await his return to the court and the stage.
FAQs
1. Why is Damian Lillard not playing for the Milwaukee Bucks?
Damian Lillard is sidelined due to a persistent calf injury that has been troubling him since last season with the Portland Trail Blazers.
2. How has Lillard’s injury impacted the Milwaukee Bucks?
Lillard’s absence poses a challenge for the Bucks, requiring adjustments in their lineup and increased reliance on players like Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
3. What is the history of Damian Lillard’s calf problems?
Lillard’s ongoing calf issues date back to his time with the Portland Trail Blazers, leading to rest periods and the team missing the playoffs last season.
4. Why did Damian Lillard leave the Portland Trail Blazers?
Lillard left the Blazers after 11 seasons, requesting a trade to a contending team, marking a significant transition in his career.
5. What is the focus of the Portland Trail Blazers after Lillard’s departure?
The Blazers, under coach Chauncey Billups, express optimism for reconciliation with Lillard in the future. Meanwhile, the team shifts focus to developing young talent for a postseason return.
