UPDATE: The Milwaukee Bucks are left in a critical situation as Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s return from a calf strain remains uncertain. The two-time MVP had previously estimated a recovery time of four to six weeks, but coach Doc Rivers confirmed on Monday that there is currently no timetable for his return.
Antetokounmpo sustained the injury during a close 102-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Friday. After the game, he indicated that an MRI would determine the extent of the strain in his right leg. Rivers refrained from speculating on a return date, stating, “There’s really no timetable.”
In the first half of the game against Denver, Antetokounmpo was seen with his right calf wrapped and struggled to find his rhythm, ultimately leaving the court with 34 seconds remaining. “I felt like I couldn’t explode,” he admitted post-game. “I could jog. I couldn’t get on my toes.” This injury marks yet another setback for the star forward, who previously missed eight games from December 5-26, 2024, due to a similar calf strain and was sidelined during the 2024 playoffs.
Despite his challenges, Antetokounmpo played 32 minutes against the Nuggets, contributing 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists. His willingness to play through discomfort, even with a struggling season record of 18-26, highlights his commitment. Teammate Bobby Portis praised his character, stating, “I just think it speaks volumes to his character and who he is as a person and player.”
As the Bucks navigate this injury crisis, they are also without their second-leading scorer, Kevin Porter Jr., sidelined with an oblique strain. Rivers confirmed there is no current timeline for Porter’s return either, complicating the team’s efforts as they have lost five of their last six games and sit 11th in the Eastern Conference.
The Bucks’ playoff streak of nine consecutive years is now in jeopardy, with their performance markedly suffering without Antetokounmpo. They hold a 15-15 record with him on the floor but have plummeted to 3-11 without his presence this season.
Looking ahead, fans and analysts alike will watch closely for any updates regarding Antetokounmpo’s recovery. With the stakes high and the team struggling, every game counts. As the Bucks seek to regroup, the urgency surrounding Giannis’ health and the team’s playoff aspirations continues to grow.
