The hits just keep on coming for the Milwaukee Bucks, and each one feels like an uppercut.
The team announced that Giannis Antetokounmpo is set to miss Wednesday's contest against the Denver Nuggets due to a foot sprain. This comes less than 24 hours after it was revealed that star guard Damian Lillard would be out of the lineup indefinitely due to a blood clot. Of course, they are already without Jericho Sims (Thumb surgery) and Bobby Portis (suspension).
The injuries and absences are piling up at the absolute worst time for the Milwaukee Bucks as the regular season nears a conclusion.
The Bucks are missing key pieces, and the timetables are cloudy
Regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo, no information was given outside of the fact that he would be out against the Denver Nuggets on Wednesday. Foot sprains can take weeks to heal sometimes, but that depends on the severity, which is currently unknown to the public. Obviously, he's the engine that gives this team life, so losing him for an extended period would be a gut punch.
The Athletic reports that there is optimism about Lillard returning at some point this season, but there is not much else to go off of here. Obviously, getting the star guard back would be welcoming, but his health is the main priority here. There's just no telling how this could unfold over the coming weeks and months.
There is a tad more clarity on the two big men. Initial reports indicated that Sims could take around four weeks to get back into the lineup, meaning he could be ready in time for the postseason. Portis will be back in time for the NBA Playoffs, as his suspension is nearing an end. The Bucks have been lacking in size lately, so getting these two back would be a boost.
Injuries have been the primary factor in the Milwaukee Bucks' demise every year since they last won the title in 2021, and they are starting to get in the way once again. There is still a world where they get healthy for a run down the stretch, but only time will tell if it actually comes to fruition. For now, everyone available to put on a jersey must embrace their increased opportunity and perform.
The Bucks are currently in a tight race with the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons to decide who gets the four, five and six seeds, so Milwaukee has to close to regular season strong.
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