Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to miss two-four weeks after suffering a right calf strain early in Wednesday’s win over the Detroit Pistons.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported on Thursday that “Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to be sidelined for approximately 2 to 4 weeks with a right calf strain, sources tell ESPN.”
The injury occurred just minutes into the first quarter, when Antetokounmpo collapsed without contact while sprinting back on defense. He stayed on the floor checking his lower leg before being helped to the bench and then to the locker room. Initial concerns about a possible Achilles injury were eased after a preliminary MRI. Coach Doc Rivers said the team believed the issue was limited to a calf strain and confirmed postgame that Antetokounmpo was undergoing imaging “right now.”
The Bucks managed to close out a 113-109 victory, but the setback comes at a difficult point in their season. Antetokounmpo had only recently returned from an adductor strain that sidelined him four games last month. Through 17 games this year, the 30-year-old had been averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists.
Antetokounmpo, a two-time MVP, has been a first-team All-NBA selection for seven straight seasons. His injury comes amid renewed uncertainty about his long-term future, and has added fuel to trade speculation ahead of February’s deadline. Earlier Wednesday, ESPN reported that Antetokounmpo and his agent, Alex Saratsis, have been discussing with team officials whether continuing in Milwaukee remains the best path. Rivers dismissed the notion before the game, saying “there’s been no conversations” and insisting Antetokounmpo “loves Milwaukee and he loves the Bucks.” Antetokounmpo signed a three-year extension in 2023 and still has a year and a half left before a potential opt-out.
Editorial credit: Ververidis Vasilis / Shutterstock.com