UPDATE: Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to miss 4-6 weeks due to a right calf injury sustained during Friday night’s narrow 102-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets. Antetokounmpo announced this alarming news immediately following the game, raising concerns for the struggling Bucks.
The injury, which he described as a recurrence of a previous calf issue, will be further evaluated through an MRI scheduled for Saturday. “After the MRI, they will tell me, probably, I popped something in my calf on my soleus or something,” Antetokounmpo stated. His potential absence is a significant blow for Milwaukee, currently facing severe challenges in the playoff race.
Antetokounmpo struggled throughout the game, managing to play 32 minutes but clearly favoring his leg. He finished with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists, despite the pain. “For me to stop playing and not be able to move? It was extremely painful,” he said. His determination to remain on the court highlights his commitment to the team, but it raises questions about his long-term health.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed concern about Antetokounmpo’s condition, noting he appeared to be favoring his leg during the second half. “I didn’t like what my eyes were seeing, personally. Giannis was defiant about staying in,” Rivers said, emphasizing the need for caution.
This injury comes at a critical time for the Bucks, who have now lost five of their last six games and sit at 18-26, currently in 11th place in the standings. They are trailing the Atlanta Hawks by 2.5 games for the final play-in spot. This season, the Bucks have struggled without their star player, posting a 3-11 record in games he has missed.
Antetokounmpo’s history with calf injuries is troubling, as he previously missed three weeks in December due to a right soleus strain. Rivers acknowledged the recurring nature of this injury, stating, “This calf keeps coming up and it’s concerning.” The team and fans alike will be anxiously awaiting MRI results to determine the next steps.
Looking ahead, Antetokounmpo aims for a return by late February or early March, stating, “I’m going to work my butt off to come back.” His determination to rejoin the team comes amid hopes that the Bucks can stabilize their season and contend for a playoff spot. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as every game counts in the tightly contested NBA landscape.
As the Bucks navigate this challenging period without their superstar, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring updates regarding his recovery and the team’s performance in the coming weeks.
