UPDATE: Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to miss at least 4-6 weeks due to a right calf injury sustained during Friday night’s 102-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Antetokounmpo revealed his prognosis after the game, confirming he will undergo an MRI on Saturday for further evaluation.
The injury, which Antetokounmpo described as similar to one that previously sidelined him this season, raises serious concerns for the Bucks as they struggle in the standings. Milwaukee currently sits at 18-26, trailing the Atlanta Hawks by 2.5 games for the No. 10 seed in the playoffs.
Antetokounmpo suffered the injury early in the first quarter but continued to play, wrapping his calf and finishing the game with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. He admitted, “I was feeling it majority of the game but did not want to stop playing,” adding that he was forced to halt when the pain became unbearable.
“For me to stop playing and not be able to move? It was extremely painful,” Antetokounmpo stated, emphasizing his determination to contribute to the team’s efforts.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed concern over Antetokounmpo’s condition, noting he had inquired multiple times about the player’s wellbeing during the game. “Giannis was defiant about staying in,” Rivers said, highlighting the star’s resilience.
This latest injury marks another setback for Antetokounmpo, who has dealt with calf issues in recent seasons, including a three-week absence in December due to a right soleus strain. Rivers remarked, “This calf keeps coming up and it’s concerning,” underscoring the potential long-term impact on the player and the team.
Without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have struggled significantly, holding a 3-11 record in games he has missed this season. The team’s recent performance has left fans anxious about their playoff prospects as the season progresses.
As the Bucks face a critical juncture in their season, Antetokounmpo’s ability to return will be pivotal. “I’m going to work my butt off to come back,” he stated, hoping for a return by late February or early March. He added, “Hopefully the team will be in a place that we can at least make the play-in or the playoffs.”
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the MRI results are anticipated, influencing not only Antetokounmpo’s recovery timeline but also the Bucks’ strategy moving forward. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
