The Milwaukee Bucks may have just delivered their biggest off-court assist of the season—and it involves a man who’s never played a minute in the NBA. As the franchise battles to stay in the Eastern Conference playoff mix, a major injury update surrounding Damian Lillard has emerged. And if there’s any hope of saving his season—or potentially his career—it might lie in the hands of Dr. Neal ElAttrache, a name well-known in elite sports circles and someone both Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers trust implicitly.
The Bucks recently revealed that Lillard is dealing with a lingering Achilles issue, one that’s been quietly limiting his explosiveness and affecting his performance late in games. The announcement raised eyebrows, especially given how Milwaukee has struggled to find an offensive rhythm in high-pressure moments. But it’s the next move that may shape the rest of Lillard’s tenure in Wisconsin: consulting with orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache.
Spend enough time in the inner circles of Los Angeles athletes and celebrities, and one name keeps surfacing—Neal ElAttrache. He’s not just another sports doctor; he’s the guy stars call when careers are on the line. From Tom Brady’s legendary ACL recovery in 2008 to Aaron Rodgers’ recent Achilles surgery, ElAttrache has become the ultimate fixer for injuries that could derail greatness.
Lillard seeking out ElAttrache isn’t just about finding a diagnosis—it’s about finding someone who knows how to rebuild trust between an athlete and their body.
Mar 18, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) walks back up court during the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images
One of his most famous patients, boxing champion Vasiliy Lomachenko, once feared his shoulder injury would end his career. After a successful surgery and personalized recovery plan—including literal lunch dates with the doctor to regain confidence—Lomachenko returned to the ring with a knockout win and didn’t thank God… he thanked ElAttrache.
That’s the kind of belief ElAttrache inspires. Kobe Bryant trusted him. So did Charlize Theron, Ringo Starr, and a long list of NBA, NFL, MLB, and global sports icons who found themselves at a personal crossroads.
A career-critical moment for Damian Lillard
For Damian Lillard, the timing couldn’t be more delicate. The Bucks brought him in to be the second star alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the chemistry hasn’t been seamless. Lillard’s recent struggles haven’t just been about fit—they may have been the warning signs of something bigger. Achilles injuries are career-altering if mismanaged. Just ask Kevin Durant, who spent a full year recovering after his own rupture.
The good news? ElAttrache doesn’t just do surgery—he does solutions. His approach is holistic, often extending into a patient’s mental recovery, lifestyle shifts, and long-term performance strategy. He’s known to open his Beverly Hills home to patients for deep conversations, cigar nights, and recovery plans that go far beyond standard protocol.
Feb 7, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) on the floor after a play against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
That could be exactly what Lillard needs—not just to finish the season, but to extend his prime years. Sources close to the team say ElAttrache has already begun evaluating Lillard’s Achilles and will work with the Bucks’ medical staff on a specialized program to monitor the condition for the rest of the season.
If there’s any glimmer of hope for Damian Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks to get back on track, it may come from outside the hardwood. Dr. Neal ElAttrache isn’t just Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers’ close friend—he’s the man behind some of the most iconic comebacks in modern sports. Now, it’s ‘Dame Time’ under the knife (figuratively, for now), and the Bucks are banking on a quiet miracle to keep their title hopes alive.
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