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Pacers Stun Bucks in Game 4; Lillard's Injury Casts Shadow
The Indiana Pacers delivered a crushing blow to the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of their first-round playoff series, winning 129-103 and taking a commanding 3-1 lead. The victory, however, was overshadowed by a devastating injury to Bucks star Damian Lillard, who suffered a potential Achilles tendon injury in the first quarter. This leaves the Bucks facing a monumental uphill battle to advance.
A Dominant Pacers Performance
The Pacers' offensive firepower was unstoppable. Eight players scored in double figures, led by Myles Turner's 23 points. Aaron Nembhard added 20, while Tyrese Haliburton contributed 17 points and 15 assists. Indiana shot a blistering 60.2% from the field, showcasing their efficiency and dominance. This performance came just two days after a Game 3 loss where they relinquished a 10-point halftime lead. The bounce-back victory was a testament to their resilience and offensive prowess.
Lillard's Injury: A Potential Series-Altering Blow
Damian Lillard's injury is the dominant storyline. The star guard was helped off the court after a non-contact injury, and initial examinations suggest a possible Achilles tendon tear. This is a devastating blow for the Bucks, who already face a challenging series. Coach Doc Rivers admitted the prognosis isn't promising, leaving Milwaukee's playoff hopes hanging in the balance. Even Giannis Antetokounmpo's 28 points and 15 rebounds couldn't compensate for the loss of their co-star.
What's Next for the Bucks?
The Bucks now face a daunting task. They’ve lost eight straight road playoff games, with the last five coming against the Pacers in Indiana. Without Lillard, their chances of winning Game 5 and extending the series seem slim. The focus now shifts to evaluating Lillard's injury, and for the team, to muster the strength to overcome this significant setback. The series heads back to Indianapolis for a pivotal Game 5 on Tuesday, where the Pacers will aim to close out the series.
Pacers on the Verge of a Repeat
The Pacers, fresh off eliminating the Bucks in the first round last year, are on the brink of doing it again. Their balanced attack and strong performance in Game 4 highlight their ability to overcome adversity. The team's excellent shooting and assist numbers clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of their game plan and the team’s cohesiveness.
