With several rotational players out of the lineup, the Milwaukee Bucks have been banged up as of late.
Following Monday's practice, Head Coach Adrian Griffin gave reporters updates on the statuses of several injured players.
Pat Connaughton, who exited Milwaukee's recent victory over the Miami Heat with an ankle sprain, is not expected to be available at all this week, per Griffin. It was a nasty turn that forced him out of the game, so this isn't too surprising.
Rookie wing Andre Jackson Jr. left Milwaukee's overtime loss against the Chicago Bulls due to back tightness, and Griffin said that he is still dealing with some back spasms. Coach said that the young player will be reevaluated ahead of the Bucks' In-Season Tournament clash vs. the New York Knicks.
There have been no changes to Jae Crowder's timeline, as he remains out after undergoing surgery recently. He'll be out for several more weeks, but he was spotted getting in some work on the floor lately, which is a very positive sign.
Coach Griffin provides injury updates on several key Milwaukee Bucks
With Connaughton out, Jackson hindered, Crowder going under the knife, and Khris Middleton still being on a minutes restriction, Milwaukee's wing depth has faced adversity recently.
Connaughton had been struggling for most of the season, and missing this much time could hinder his ability to find a groove even more. Jackson was a consistent bright spot for the Bucks early this season, so seeing him out stings. The same goes for Crowder, who was excellent before his injury. Middleton is playing, though his minutes remain monitored, so he hasn't been his best self yet.
Two young players who have to step up with these injuries are MarJon Beauchamp and A.J. Green. Despite seeing decent minutes, Beauchamp has struggled to get himself into a groove as of late. Everyone was banking on a year-two breakout from Beauchamp, and the team needs it now. Green hasn't been on the court much, but he may have an opportunity to see legitimate minutes now.
Next man up has to be the motto for this team as they try to weather this string of injuries early on.
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