Prior to the Milwaukee Bucks' 121-115 overtime win over the Miami Heat, head coach Doc Rivers was asked about injured big man Jericho Sims, who he is hopeful can return soon.
It has been a tough stretch for the Bucks, with Damian Lillard and Sims both injured and Bobby Portis' suspension leaving them shorthanded for a run of games. Yet, Giannis Antetokounmpo put up his ninth triple-double of the season as he led the Milwaukee Bucks to their third straight win, keeping their hopes of homecourt advantage in the playoffs alive.
When asked about Sims, Rivers said, "I really don't know. I know he's feeling better, but the timeline has not changed. We're just hopeful for the playoffs."
Bucks need Sims' athleticism, but returning too soon could be an issue
Since arriving in Milwaukee, Sims had been a much-needed boost of athleticism and versatility. He gave the Bucks something none of their other big men could offer. Both he and Portis have been missed, but the team has managed to hold it together, and their returns are coming at the right time.
For Portis, it is slightly different. His suspension will likely mean he returns with a bit of rust to shake off, but health-wise, he should be fine. However, Sims returning too soon could be a hindrance for the Milwaukee Bucks if he isn't fully healthy. Rushing him back and forcing him into the rotation could lead to him being exposed, so they need to be careful as to when he is brought back in.
In his 14 games with the Bucks, Sims has averaged 2.4 points and 4.9 rebounds while shooting 68 percent from the field. Those stats don't jump off the page, but the team looked far better with him in it, and the 15 minutes a game he played allowed the Milwaukee Bucks to switch more defensively and use his athleticism in the frontcourt as a cutter.
Sims had surgery on his right thumb on March 17 and was set to be sidelined for approximately four weeks. To be exact, the Bucks could expect him to be back by April 14, the day after their final regular season game. Portis has one more game on his suspension, so he will be back to face the Minnesota Timberwolves.
For the Milwaukee Bucks, it would be huge if they could have Sims back for the playoffs and use his athleticism and versatility to give them different looks on both ends of the floor. If they want to get a regular season game under his belt before the postseason, then they need to be careful that it doesn't hinder the team if he isn't fully healthy.
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