Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Injury Status Sparks Concern as Bucks Struggle Without Their Star
As the Milwaukee Bucks prepare for a crucial matchup against the New York Knicks, uncertainty looms over the availability of their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. According to the NBA’s latest injury report, the nine-time All-NBA power forward is deemed questionable due to a strained left adductor. Meanwhile, the team is also dealing with the absence of starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr., who is still recovering from surgery on a right knee meniscus. Adding to the Bucks’ woes, Taurean Prince is on the mend from a procedure to address a herniated disc in his neck.
The Impact of Antetokounmpo’s Absence
Giannis, who had been listed as questionable prior to the Bucks’ recent game against the Miami Heat, ultimately missed his fourth consecutive outing. In his absence, Milwaukee faced off against Miami and suffered a narrow 106-103 defeat, marking their fourth straight loss. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed relief over the medical team’s decision to hold Antetokounmpo out of the game, emphasizing the importance of not rushing him back too soon.
“I was very happy we decided what we decided. I was very uncomfortable with it [playing Antetokounmpo against Miami],” Rivers noted. “He really wanted to push, and that’s who Giannis is. I was very happy with our medical team today. They decided at the end of the day, let’s wait. Obviously, as a coach, I can’t get involved but so much, but I told Giannis this morning—that it should be a no tonight.”
Life Without Their MVP
Milwaukee has struggled significantly without their two-time MVP. Rivers has opted to start reserve swingman Gary Trent Jr., shifting Kyle Kuzma into the starting power forward role typically held by Antetokounmpo. While Trent may not be known for his defensive prowess, his shooting has provided some much-needed offensive support. Since stepping into the starting lineup, the 6-foot-5 former Duke standout has averaged 11.5 points per game, with shooting splits of .417/.444/.800, along with 1.8 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.8 rebounds.
The Bucks find themselves in a challenging position, currently holding an 8-11 record, which places them at the No. 11 seed in the Eastern Conference.
Knicks Lineup Changes
On the other side of the court, the Knicks will also be without key players. All-Defensive forward OG Anunoby is sidelined due to a strained left hamstring, while reserve shooting guard Landry Shamet is out with a sprained right shoulder. As both teams grapple with injuries, the upcoming game promises to be a pivotal moment for both franchises as they seek to regain their footing in a competitive conference.
