The Milwaukee Bucks will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo for the final three games before the All-Star break. Shams Charania reported he has a mild calf strain and won’t take part in the All-Star festivities. The Bucks expect him to return shortly after the break, but calf injuries can be tricky.
Giannis has already missed three games. The Bucks have lost twice, including a disappointing defeat in Atlanta on Feb. 7. They host the 76ers on Sunday afternoon before facing the Warriors and Timberwolves to close the first half. Those will all be difficult contests, especially without the Greek Freak. Milwaukee needs Kyle Kuzma to step up and will be relying heavily on Damian Lillard to lead them.
Giannis has a calf injury. Here is more on those injuries and when fans can expect Antetokounmpo to return to the floor.
Bucks must be careful with Giannis Antetokounmpo amid calf strain
Giannis has not played since Feb. 2, so resting him through the All-Star break gives him two and a half weeks off. The Bucks would be wise to take their time as calf injuries can be tricky.
The average time missed in the NBA with a calf strain is 17 days. Giannis will sit at least that long if he returns for their first game after the break. The Bucks host the Clippers on Feb. 20 before heading to Washington the following night. Expect him to only play in one of those two contests if healthy. The Bucks likely use Antetokounmpo at home and rest him versus the rebuilding Wizards.
Do not be surprised to see Milwaukee take a cautious approach with Giannis for the rest of the season. The Greek Freak missed the entire first-round playoff series versus the Pacers last year and sat out two games in the 2023 playoffs. The Bucks cannot endure a third straight first-round exit. They need Giannis on the floor to avoid it. Keeping him healthy should be their top priority down the stretch.
Making sure this calf injury is fully healed is a must. They cannot afford him to reinjure the calf, so do not be surprised to see him even miss a few contests after the All-Star break. Chris Haynes reported Giannis is out two to three weeks, so it may be March before he returns to the floor.
The NBA will select an injury replacement for Giannis in the All-Star game. Bucks fans should be disappointed he won't be able to compete, but his health is significantly more important.
The Milwaukee Bucks have lost six of their last eight and are searching for consistency. Can they find it without Giannis Antetokounmpo in the lineup? It won’t be easy, but the Bucks must prioritize their star’s long-term health. Expect to see him back for the stretch run. Giannis plans on leading Milwaukee on a deep playoff run. Stay tuned to see if he can make it happen after returning from his latest injury.