Giannis Antetokounmpo Sidelined with Left Calf Strain; Expected to Miss Three Games
ICARO Media Group
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the star player for the Milwaukee Bucks, left Tuesday night's game against the Boston Celtics with a left calf strain and did not return. Following the game, coach Doc Rivers expressed concern about the injury, stating that the team hopes for the best.
An MRI on Wednesday revealed that Antetokounmpo has avoided Achilles damage in his left leg, which is a positive development. His return to the court will depend on how he responds to daily treatment and evaluation.
The incident occurred late in the third quarter when Antetokounmpo collapsed while running up the court after Celtics guard Derrick White made a 3-pointer. Antetokounmpo immediately grabbed his calf and was attended to by the Bucks' medical staff. He was eventually helped off the court by his teammates with a significant limp.
Antetokounmpo has been dealing with nagging injuries in recent weeks and had previously sat out a game against the Toronto Raptors on April 5 due to left hamstring tendinopathy. Despite his enduring presence on the court, this season he has missed only six games.
While the exact duration of Antetokounmpo's absence is uncertain, Portland Trail Blazers' Damian Lillard, who had also suffered a calf strain, shared his experience with a two-week recovery period. Antetokounmpo's injury was described as painful and hindered walking, emphasizing the significance of the strain.
In Antetokounmpo's absence, the Bucks will need to rely on a collective effort to secure victories. His teammate Khris Middleton expressed the importance of filling the gap together and encouraged Antetokounmpo to prioritize his recovery over rushing back to the court and risking further injury.
The Bucks have just three regular-season games remaining, and it remains to be seen when Antetokounmpo will make his return. The team will closely monitor his progress and respond accordingly to ensure his long-term health.
Antetokounmpo's absence will undoubtedly be felt on the court, but with the resilience and depth of the Bucks' roster, they will look to overcome this setback and maintain their momentum as they prepare for the upcoming playoffs.