Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard said his 'priorities are to protect my health and safety' after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his right calf that will keep him sidelined indefinitely.

Lillard, a nine-time All-Star who played the first 11 seasons of his NBA career with the Portland Trail Blazers, was traded to the Bucks during the 2023 offseason. Lillard missed two games during the Bucks 4-2 first round loss to the Indiana Pacers during last season's playoffs.

The 34-year-old point guard is on blood-thinners. A league source told The Athletic that there is optimism he will return this season.