In the Milwaukee Bucks’ recent win over the Philadelphia 76ers, Grayson Allen exited early after suffering an ugly-looking ankle sprain.
As expected, Allen was sidelined for Milwaukee’s next game against the Washington Wizards due to this injury. Coach Mike Budenholzer gave an update on Allen’s status, saying that the guard had an MRI and that the team hopes he will be available soon. In typical Budenholzer fashion, there was no specific timetable given for a return, but he did state that there are scenarios where Allen could be ready for Milwaukee’s first playoff game after the regular season concludes.
Here was Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer's full response, when I asked for an update on Grayson Allen's right ankle sprain: pic.twitter.com/aJ8WLSRQye
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) April 4, 2023
Bucks’ Mike Budenholzer gives an update on Grayson Allen’s ankle injury
With three regular season games left to play, it seems unlikely that Allen will play in any of them. The Bucks will always be cautious with injuries and will not play Allen until he is back to being his best. As Budenholzer detailed, it all depends on how Allen progresses moving forward, as ankle sprains can be tricky sometimes. At the end of the day, better to be safe than sorry, of course.
In the meantime, others will have to step up in not just Allen’s place but also Pat Connaughton’s after he went down with an ankle sprain against Washington. Jae Crowder got his first start of the season in Allen’s absence and played exceptionally well; he will continue to play a big role and see more minutes. Joe Ingles and Wesley Matthews will also see an increase in minutes and could be big contributors off of the bench with those two battling these ankle injuries.
As he did against the Wizards, rookie MarJon Beauchamp could also see some time on the court, which is certainly always exciting.
It will be interesting to see how Budenholzer adjusts his rotation with Allen and Connaughton, the ladder having started against the Wizards, potentially on the sidelines for the time being. Fans will get a close look tonight as the Bucks host the Chicago Bulls in a crucial Central Division showdown and potential first round playoff matchup.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis and updates with the NBA Playoffs nearing.