NBA: Cleveland Cavaliers at Milwaukee Bucks - Source: ImagnDamian Lillard posts cryptic message (Image Source: IMAGN)

Damian Lillard and the Milwaukee Bucks are off to an awful start to their season. After winning their opening game against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Bucks then dropped five straight games. The losing streak has been surprising, especially with both Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo healthy and playing for Milwaukee.

Amid the Bucks’ struggles, Lillard posted a cryptic message on his Instagram stories. The Bucks star reposted an image that reads:

“You gotta know how raw u are without a congratulation, celebration, or validation.”

Lillard then captioned his story:

“This the separator.”

Damian Lillard's Instagram StoryDamian Lillard’s Instagram Story

It seems that “Dame” is trying to remain motivated despite the Bucks’ early challenges.

Damian Lillard and the Bucks aim to break losing streak in rematch vs. Cavaliers

NBA: Cleveland Cavaliers at Milwaukee Bucks - Source: ImagnNBA: Cleveland Cavaliers at Milwaukee Bucks – Source: Imagn

The Milwaukee Bucks have now dropped five straight games, most recently losing to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday. It was a close game between the two teams, with the Cavs coming out on top by only one point, 114-113. Milwaukee came close to breaking its cold streak, but a Donovan Mitchell buzzer-beater dashed the Bucks’ hopes.

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo did everything in their power to keep the Bucks alive on Saturday. Lillard was on fire, scoring 41 points and nearly finishing with a double-double, adding nine assists and four rebounds. His shots were spot on as he shot 66.6% from beyond the arc and 54.1% from the field.

Antetokounmpo flirted with a triple-double, finishing with 34 points, 16 rebounds and nine assists. He also shot an accurate 55.5%.

The Bucks’ dynamic duo has the opportunity to redeem themselves in a rematch with the Cavs on Monday. The coaching staff may need to make some adjustments on defense to try and stop the Donovan Mitchell-led Cavs offense.

This season, Lillard is averaging 26.2 points, 6.7 assists and 5.0 rebounds, staying close to his usual self. However, his lack of synergy with Antetokounmpo is only one of several challenges facing the Bucks.