Giannis Antetokounmpo has missed the Milwaukee Bucks' last two matchups, a victory over the Phoenix Suns and a loss to the Boston Celtics, with injury.
The Greek Freak has been battling a hamstring issue, which is certainly nothing to mess around with, especially with the heavy workload Antetokounmpo has taken on this year. Prior to Milwaukee's clash with the Celtics, Coach Doc Rivers was asked about No. 34's current status and provided a somewhat optimistic answer.
"He's feeling good, not great. Those things are something you don't take a chance on, especially now."
Rivers added that Antetokounmpo more than likely would have come to Boston if it were up to the two-time MVP, but that should not be surprising. Antetokounmpo has always been a player to play through injury, especially in big matchups like this one.
Doc Rivers provides somewhat optimistic update on Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo
With 13 regular season contests left to play, having your star player dealing with hamstring issues is certainly not ideal. For the Milwaukee Bucks to reach their title goals, they need Antetokounmpo not only in the lineup but also dominating as his usual self.
Antetokounmpo's injury status will be one of the biggest storylines for the Milwaukee Bucks down the final stretch before the NBA Playoffs. It would not be surprising if he sat out on Thursday, the second night of a back-to-back against the Brooklyn Nets, to get some extra rest, but every other game will be littered with uncertainty, with a decision likely coming right before each matchup begins.
If he does miss Thursday's contest and eyes a return to action Sunday against the OKC Thunder at home, Antetokounmpo will have had 10 days of rest between games. That time off could do him and that hamstring good, allowing him to recharge with constant treatment, but only time will truly tell if 10 days may ultimately be enough.
If Antetokounmpo continues to miss contests, the Bucks must continue to embrace the "next man up mentality" that they have as of late. In that regard, Bobby Portis has done an excellent job, giving this team a significant spark off of the bench with his scoring, rebounding and energy. Of course, more will fall onto the shoulders of the Milwaukee Bucks stars in Khris Middleton and Damian Lillard also.
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