Damian Lillard (35 PTS, 6-11 3PT) was telling fans why the Bucks acquired him after the Game 1 win over the Pacers.
The Milwaukee Bucks walked out of Game 1 of the first round with a 109-94 win over the Indiana Pacers, primarily because of Damian Lillard’s explosive offensive performance. After hitting a huge three to extend the Bucks lead in the second quarter, he looked over to the fans and told them this is why the Bucks got him.
“This is what ya’ll brought me here for.”
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Lillard has been having a tough debut season with the Bucks, averaging 24.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 7.0 assists on the season. Tonight, he put up 35 points, six rebounds, and four assists, taking over the game to ensure the Bucks could win this without Giannis Antetokounmpo.
The Pacers have had a lot of success against the Bucks this season, but Dame ensured they wouldn’t run away with an easy playoff win over them. Pascal Siakam dominated in Game 1 with 36 points and 13 rebounds, but Tyrese Haliburton putting up just 9 points meant that the Pacers couldn’t compete.
There are still things to be concerned about with how Lillard played. The biggest red flag was Dame’s second-half disappearance, as he made no field goals in the second half of the game after scoring 35 in the first 24 minutes of the game.
Dame’s lack of offensive impact in the second half allowed the Pacers to make a comeback, though it wasn’t enough to push the Bucks out of the win.
Damian Lillard Hopes Success Brings Happiness
The Bucks want to earn playoff success once again, especially after making a high-risk all-in move over the summer. The Lillard trade to Milwaukee came out of nowhere, as Dame wanted to go to Miami and agitated for the same. That didn’t happen, and all season long there have been rumors about Lillard being unhappy in Milwaukee.
With personal issues bubbling to the surface, Lillard has had a tough time over the last season. But the 34-year-old point guard made it clear he loves his current situation despite everything that’s going on off the court.
“I don’t get too carried away with it. I saw somebody say, ‘Dame’s not happy in Milwaukee’ or something like that and I know the truth, I love the situation that I’m in, I also know what I have going on outside of basketball that kinda drains me at times, so people going to make comments, people going to say things and if it doesn’t go the way they say nobody is ever come to them and said ‘Alright, you said this. Now what do you have to say about it?’ They’re never held accountable for what they say publicly.”
As the postseason continues, Lillard and the Bucks will be praying for Giannis to return soon. Sources indicate that the Bucks are targeting Game 3 for Giannis. There’s a chance the Bucks could rest Giannis the entire first round, but that depends on whether Lillard can thrive as the No. 1 option and eliminate the Pacers.
