Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to be sidelined for at least four to six weeks due to a right calf injury sustained during the team’s narrow 102-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets on January 26, 2024. Antetokounmpo revealed his prognosis following the game, indicating that he will undergo an MRI for further evaluation of the injury.
During Friday’s contest, Antetokounmpo felt the calf issue early on, but he continued to play despite the discomfort. He stated, “I was feeling it for the majority of the game but did not want to stop playing. But at the end, I could not move no more, so I had to stop.” This injury mirrors a previous calf strain that kept him out of action earlier in the season.
Injury Details and Implications
Antetokounmpo’s injury occurred during the first quarter, prompting him to leave the court briefly before returning with a wrap around his right calf. He played for 32 minutes, contributing 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 7 assists before ultimately being unable to continue.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed concern over Antetokounmpo’s condition, noting that he observed the player favoring his leg during the second half. “I asked our medical team five different times,” Rivers said. “Giannis was defiant about staying in.” The coach’s apprehension is compounded by Antetokounmpo’s history with calf injuries, including a right soleus strain in December that caused him to miss three weeks and contributed to his absence during the 2024 playoffs.
Rivers remarked, “This calf keeps coming up, and it’s concerning. I’m not a doctor, but I’m smart enough to know that his calf keeps bothering him, and there’s something there.” The Bucks have struggled recently, losing five of their last six games and standing at 18-26 in the standings, currently sitting in 11th place and trailing the Atlanta Hawks by 2.5 games for the final play-in spot.
Future Outlook for the Bucks
The potential loss of Antetokounmpo poses a significant challenge for Milwaukee, particularly given their current struggles. The Bucks have recorded a dismal 3-11 record this season when playing without their star forward. Antetokounmpo’s determination to return is evident as he stated, “I’m going to work my butt off to come back. That will probably be the end of February, beginning of March.” He hopes the team can remain competitive in his absence, aiming for a place in the playoffs.
As the Bucks navigate this challenging period, the focus will be on maintaining team morale and performance without their key player. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the MRI results come in and the team prepares for the upcoming weeks.
