Portland Trail Blazers’ All-Star Damian Lillard suffered a knee injury during Monday’s 135-115 loss to Los Angeles Lakers and, according to the team, will miss must-win Game 5 on Wednesday.
Lillard got injured midway through the third quarter after landing awkwardly during a drive to the basket. The 30-year-old guard went to the locker room after the possession before returning to court several minutes after. However, he exited the game again after several plays and did not return.
Following the game, Lillard underwent an MRI, but according to the team, the results were “inconclusive.” He underwent a second MRI later on Tuesday, which revealed a knee strain.
After the most recent loss, Blazers find themselves on the brink of elimination as Lakers took 3-1 lead in the series. The Game 5 is set to tip-off on Wednesday, and without Damian Lillard, Portland’s chances of surviving seem slim.
Lillard has been phenomenal for the Trail Blazers in איק Orlando bubble, leading the team from No.10 seed to playoffs during the eight regular-season games and play-in match against Memphis Grizzlies. He has also been efficient in the series against Lakers, averaging 28.6 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game.
