Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miss Time with Calf Strain
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Milwaukee Bucks star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will be sidelined for two to three weeks due to a calf strain, as reported by NBA insider Chris Haynes. This absence carries significant implications not only for Antetokounmpo's individual performance but also for the Bucks' season, as he will be unable to participate in the upcoming NBA All-Star festivities at Chase Center in San Francisco.
Throughout the current season, Antetokounmpo has demonstrated a strong performance, averaging 31.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game over 41 contests. The two-time NBA MVP is eager to recover, particularly after a previous calf injury hampered his pursuit of a second career championship last season. During the 2023-24 campaign, he appeared in 73 games, which marked his highest total since the 2018-19 season, maintaining averages of 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds, 6.5 assists, along with 1.1 steals and 1.2 blocks while shooting an impressive 61.1 percent from the field.
The calf injury that sidelined Antetokounmpo last season resulted in his absence for the playoffs, and the Bucks were ultimately eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers in six games. As Milwaukee aims for another championship run, the team's stability may be tested despite the duo of Antetokounmpo and star point guard Damian Lillard. Lillard has been adjusting to his first year with the Bucks but has rebounded in his performance this season, averaging 25.0 points and 7.5 assists per game, with a three-point shooting clip of 37.7 percent. With Antetokounmpo out, the Bucks will need to lean on Lillard as their primary offensive option. Additionally, veteran forwards Bobby Portis and Taurean Prince are expected to see increased roles in the frontcourt until Antetokounmpo's return.
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