First update on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s wrist injury is positive

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 16 (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - FEBRUARY 16 (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Giannis Antetokounmpo exited the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent matchup with the Chicago Bulls early after suffering a wrist injury in the first half. Antetokounmpo ran into the stanchion after trying to block Coby White and was visibly uncomfortable as he held his wrist in pain.

Bucks fans anxiously awaited Coach Mike Budenholzer to take the podium after the game to give an update on the Greek Freak’s status. Budenholzer gave some positive clarity on the situation.

"“I think the initial reports were hopeful. The x-ray was clean. And he’s got a sprain. I think we’ll see how he feels tomorrow, see how he feels the next few days and continue to evaluate it.”"

First update on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s wrist injury is positive

Although there are still more tests to be done to determine the severity of this injury, these initial returns are positive. Antetokounmpo thankfully did not suffer a fracture of any kind, which would have undoubtedly been brutal. There will now be some lingering questions moving forward as the Bucks brace for a much-needed week off.

With the All-Star break starting, Antetokounmpo may have some extra time to rehab. This injury makes it uncertain whether or not Antetkounmpo will participate in the All-Star Game, where he is set to be a captain, alongside fellow Buck Jrue Holiday or the Skills Challenge alongside two of his brothers, Alex Antetokounmpo and Thanasis Antetokounmpo. Yet, those things are not important in the bigger picture.

It would likely devastate Antetokounmpo, but if the wrist is bugging him, missing the game might be on the table. There would be no reason to push it, especially considering he has around a week off to get treatment. Truly, only Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee’s staff know what is going on with that wrist right now, and some tough decisions will have to be made depending on the results that follow this initial update from Budenholzer.

Antetokounmpo and the Bucks will head into the All-Star break with a 12-game win streak as they currently sit half a game back of the top seed in the Eastern Conference. This break comes at a good time, as the Bucks have a few guys banged up, including Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Bobby Portis, who could use some rest over the next week or so.

Stay tuned for updates on Antetokounmpo’s injury status moving forward.