Why is Damian Lillard not playing vs Cleveland? Latest on Bucks star's absence (Dec. 20)

After their NBA Cup glory, the Milwaukee Bucks return to regular season action on Friday as they head to the Midwest to take on the high-flying Cleveland Cavaliers. Damian Lillard, who won his first piece of silverware and has been in the spotlight after signing a lifetime deal with Adidas, is surprisingly ruled out for this game.

Lillard has been integral to the Bucks’ success this season, and his 23-point outing in the NBA Cup final may have taken a toll on his body. He’s ruled out for the game, citing a strained calf.

As has been the case this season, the injury list continues to be a concern for the Bucks. Friday’s clash with the Cavs marks the start of a demanding run, featuring six games in 10 days. Following the Cleveland game, the Bucks face the Wizards, Bulls, Nets and Bulls again, and conclude the year with a road game against the Pacers.

Damian Lillard, 34, has already had a brush with injury this season, and with the team starting to find some newfound momentum, the need for a fully fit squad becomes ever more critical.

This will be the fourth matchup Lillard will be missing this season. He started in 22 games for the Bucks this season, averaging 25.7 points per game, 4.5 rebounds and 7.5 assists.

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Damian Lillard’s stats vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Damian Lillard has faced the Cavaliers 24 times in his 12-year NBA career. He holds a 12-12 record against them, averaging 27.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game.

Lillard played 18 games for the Portland outfit, with his highest score during that stretch coming against the Cavaliers. He scored 50 points in his final outing against them on Jan. 12, 2023.

However, since his infamous move to the Bucks, he has faced Cleveland six times, posting a 2-4 record in those matchups. Lillard's highest points total against the Cavs in a Bucks uniform is 41 points, which came last month in a 114-113 loss.

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How to watch Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers?

This high-stakes encounter between the Eastern Conference rivals could define the direction of both teams’ seasons, making it unmissable for NBA fans. The game will be held at Cleveland's Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse. Tip-off is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. ET. The matchup will be televised on NBA TV and locally through FDSO and FDSW.