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The Milwaukee Bucks received precisely what they were anticipating from their star point guard Damian Lillard in Game 1 of their first-round series against the Indiana Pacers in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. With Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a calf injury, the responsibility fell on Lillard to lead the offense.
This role is familiar territory for Lillard, who frequently served as the primary offensive option during his tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers. Despite opponents focusing their defensive efforts on him, Lillard consistently found ways to score and create opportunities for his teammates.
In the first half on Sunday, Lillard delivered one of his vintage performances, scoring 35 points and establishing a commanding 69-42 halftime lead for the Bucks. The Pacers struggled to contain him defensively as he unleashed a barrage of long-range 3-pointers and drew fouls with his aggressive drives to the basket.
Lillard’s first-half display included six made 3-pointers, several of which were from considerable distance. Additionally, he capitalized on trips to the free-throw line, converting all seven of his attempts. The substantial lead he helped build proved sufficient for Milwaukee to maintain control and secure a 109-94 victory.
Despite Indiana’s efforts to adjust defensively in the second half, including effectively neutralizing Lillard at times, the Bucks ultimately emerged victorious. However, the Pacers did find some positives in the latter half of the game, notably in containing Lillard and narrowing the point differential.
NBA All-Star Damian Lillard started hot but went cold in the second half, setting an NBA record for most first-half points followed by zero in the second. Speculation arises about whether the Pacers contained him or if Lillard shifted focus. Game 2 in Milwaukee will reveal more, as Indiana aims to level the series, while the Bucks seek a 2-0 lead, possibly without Giannis Antetokounmpo.
