They won those games without all-star point guard Damian Lillard, who was ruled out indefinitely with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf in late March. But, Lillard received excellent news this past week when he was cleared to return to the court and he may play in this series.

Handicapping the first NBA playoff game inevitably involves some guesswork, given the stakes and magnitude will certainly impact the outcome.

Milwaukee and Indiana kick off their Central Division showdown Saturday. But the Bucks still will be without star Damian Lillard. Will he return?