Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard to be re-evaluated in 2-3 weeks, progressing in rehab of abdominal injury
At 25-35 and in 10th place in the Western Conference standings entering Sunday night, the Portland Trail Blazers are in real danger of missing the postseason for the first time since the 2012-13 season. The trade of CJ McCollum earlier this month hasn’t helped the cause, but the primary reason for Portland’s troubles this season has undoubtedly been the abdominal injury to six-time All-Star Damian Lillard.
It was reported last month that the superstar would be undergoing abdominal surgery and miss six to eight weeks. That was about seven weeks ago.
Despite Lillard saying that he felt “good” following the procedure, an update from the team on Sunday is still leaving an unclear picture regarding his status.
In the update, the Trail Blazers said that the point guard has “progressed through the initial phase of his rehabilitation from abdominal surgery without setback” and will “begin the reconditioning phase of his rehab protocol next week, which includes the continuation of his strengthening program along with basketball skill activity.” The organization said it would still be another two to three weeks until Lillard is re-evaluated.
Lillard hasn’t played since Dec. 31 and has reportedly been dealing with the injury throughout the season, and since as far back as last summer’s Olympics. He missed time at the beginning of December after an MRI confirmed lower abdominal tendinopathy, and after meeting with a pair of specialists, the decision was made to have the surgery.
Lillard has posted 24.0 points, 7.3 assists, 4.1 rebounds and 36.4 minutes per game in 29 contests this season while posting a .402/.324/.878 shooting line.
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