The Milwaukee Bucks entered Game 5 without Damian Lillard which made their task of defeating the Indiana Pacers much more difficult. The Bucks clawed their way through but the team’s 2025 playoff run ultimately ended Wednesday night in heartbreaking fashion with a 119–118 overtime loss to the Pacers. The Game 5 defeat sealed a 4–1 series loss and an abrupt postseason exit for a team built to contend.
Tyrese Haliburton delivered the dagger with a driving layup with just 1.4 seconds left in OT, capping off a 26-point night that sent Indiana into the second round. Despite a dominant triple-double from Giannis Antetokounmpo — 30 points, 20 rebounds, and 13 assists — and 33 points from Gary Trent Jr., the Bucks fell short in a must-win game.
But the night’s most emotional moments came after the final buzzer. First it started with emotions running high postgame when Antetokounmpo got into a heated exchange with Haliburton’s father who taunted Giannis prior to the run up.
Tyrese Haliburton’s father and Giannis Antetokounmpo get into heated exchange after the Pacers eliminate Bucks from #NBAPlayoffs 😬
— Double Take Sports (@dbltakesports) April 30, 2025
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Then in Antetokounmpo’s postgame comments, he could not help but reflect on Lillard’s absence.
“What hurts me the most is I felt like we owed this game to [Damian Lillard],” Giannis told reporters. “I felt like he came back earlier than he was supposed to. He sacrificed his body for us.”
Lillard’s Injury Casts Long Shadow
Lillard suffered a torn Achilles in Game 4 but had attempted to play through lingering issues earlier in the series. At 34 years old and with a massive contract on the books — $54 million in 2025–26 and a $58 million player option the following season — his injury presents a huge question mark for the franchise’s future.
Early reports indicate Lillard could miss most, if not all, of the 2025–26 season. His absence removes one of the Bucks’ few elite shot creators and leaves a gaping hole in the backcourt heading into a critical offseason.
A Win-Now Window Closing?
This postseason was supposed to be Milwaukee’s window to make another title push. With an aging core including Kyle Kuzma who they traded for mid-season and few young assets or draft picks, the Bucks don’t have many paths to retool the roster. Lillard’s injury only tightens the screws.
Speculation is already swirling about Giannis’ long-term commitment. Though he’s given no public indication of wanting out, rival teams are watching closely, should Milwaukee’s situation deteriorate further.
What Comes Next?
With Lillard sidelined, cap space tied up, and no postseason momentum to build on, the Bucks enter the summer with more questions than answers. Can they remain contenders with a depleted roster? Will Giannis stay long-term if the team can’t surround him with healthy, high-level talent?
One thing is clear: Damian Lillard gave everything he had to push this team forward. And even in defeat, his teammates know exactly what he sacrificed to do it.
Heartbreaking end to the season for Damian Lillard, but his message to fans shows that he is choosing positivity. The comeback will be greater than the setback.#NBAPlayoffs #fearthedeer pic.twitter.com/m5MakAZagF
— Double Take Sports (@dbltakesports) April 29, 2025