Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum and Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard share many things. Both players have the same jersey number, both have represented the Celtics and Bucks in the All-Star Game, and both are quiet leaders for their team. Unfortunately, both stars have another thing in common. Both face ACL recoveries after getting injured in the postseason.

Lillard fought to return to the court after blood clots ended his regular season early. He made it back for Game 2 of their first-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Unfortunately, the All-Star tore his ACL six minutes into Game 5, leaving the bulk of the offensive responsibility on Giannis Antetokounmpo's shoulders.

Tatum, on the other hand, fought through a gritty series against the Orlando Magic in the first round. He and the Celtics tried to come back against the New York Knicks in the second round, but their chances of winning plummeted when Tatum tore his ACL in Game 4.

Both players will be lucky if they get to play at all in the 2025-26 regular season. However, Lillard reached out to Tatum and shared a moment with him as both begin the long road back to the floor. The veteran guard posted the picture to his Instagram page, and fans offered support to both.

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Lillard's injury has had a big impact on the Bucks' outlook. Milwaukee fans continue to wait and see whether or not Antetokounmpo will ask for a trade. If he does, Lillard could find himself as the sole star left on the Bucks' roster this summer.

While none of Tatum's teammates want to be moved, changes could be imminent. The Celtics' payroll is simply too high for the team's new ownership. Experts expect Boston to try and keep Tatum and Brown together, but the team won't be the same entering next season.

Regardless of what happens next season, Lillard and Tatum will not be playing. ACL recoveries take a long time, but fans hope that their stars can return to their former glory.