Taurean Prince has not played for the Milwaukee Bucks since November 4 after undergoing surgery to address a herniated disc. There was plenty of doubt that he would return this season, but now, the forward's return may be on the horizon. Per the team's latest injury report, Prince is questionable to play against the Phoenix Suns.
A trusted forward may return for the Bucks
Prince's return isn't moving the needle for the Milwaukee Bucks. Even before his injury, he was having one of his least productive seasons, though it was based on just an eight-game sample. It's going to take some time for him to shake off the rust. At his best, Prince can be a strong perimeter shooter and a capable defender to take on opposing wings when needed.
The question is where exactly Prince may fit into the rotation. A little over a month ago, the Bucks would have gleefully welcomed him back with open arms, given how thin they were at the forward spot. However, with Ousmane Dieng playing very well, especially in his new role as a starter, there would be an uproar if Doc Rivers suddenly prioritized Prince over Milwaukee's young star.
Instead, it will be interesting to see if Prince takes some minutes from AJ Green. The guard, who has been masquerading as a small forward for most of the season, has been struggling mightily as of late, with his impact on both sides of the ball lessened. Perhaps Rivers will look to acclimate Prince back into the swing of things by offering him some of those minutes, especially if Green's struggles persist.
No matter what, it's great that Prince has overcome this injury and is in line to make his return soon. If not in this game, it will be an upcoming one.
Bucks injury report ahead of clash with Suns
Outside of Prince, there are no surprises on Milwaukee's injury report. Giannis Antetokounmpo will be back in the lineup after missing the last game. Alex Antetokounmpo and Cormac Ryan are out as they remain on two-way assignment. Kevin Porter Jr. remains out as he deals with swelling in the same knee he had meniscus surgery on earlier this season.
Milwaukee faces a tough test against the Suns, who are in the playoff picture. Yet, if they want to salvage what has been a rough season to this point, it feels like they need this one.
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