Lillard's comments show that he's still determined to return to action. Recovering from an Achilles tendon tear has never been an easy task. However, the nine-time All-Star is determined to be healthy and back on the floor for the Bucks.

Milwaukee choked away a seven-point lead in the final 40 seconds of overtime in Game 5 against the Pacers, losing 119-118 when Tyrese Haliburton put in a layup with 1.1 ticks left. It was a stunning end for the Bucks, who lost the series four games to one.

Damian Lillard #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts from the court after an apparent injury during the first quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference First Round NBA Playoffs against the Indiana Pacers

The Rockets find themselves on the cusp of championship contention. Their disruptive, dominant defense is camera-ready for basketball's biggest stage. Their competitive fire and the fight instilled under head coach Ime Udoka can keep sturdy legs beneath them through the final rounds of a heavyweight brawl.

The Milwaukee Bucks are currently down 3-1 in their first-round series with the Indiana Pacers. While the series isn't over, it feels over, meaning offseason di