Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miss Extended Time Due to Calf Injury

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is facing an extended recovery period due to a re-injury of his right calf. This setback follows a previous calf injury that caused him to miss eight games earlier this season.

Details of the Injury

Antetokounmpo sustained the initial calf injury on December 3 and returned to play on December 27. Since then, he has been on a minutes restriction. However, during a recent match against the Denver Nuggets, he aggravated the injury, leading to his early exit.

Game Performance and Injury Impact

During the game on Friday night, Antetokounmpo played until the final minute but struggled with discomfort. He reported not being able to move effectively towards the game’s conclusion. “At the end, I could not move no more, so I had to stop playing,” he stated after the match.

Anticipated MRI Results

Antetokounmpo is scheduled for an MRI which he predicts will reveal similar findings to his earlier injury. He expects a diagnosis that might indicate a significant issue in his calf, possibly involving the soleus muscle, which could lead to a recovery timeline of four to six weeks.

Coaching Concerns

Bucks coach Doc Rivers expressed concern regarding Antetokounmpo’s condition. He noted, “I don’t think it looks great, honestly. This calf keeps coming up, and it’s concerning.” The coach acknowledged the recurring nature of the injury as troubling for both the team and the player.

Impact on Team Performance

The Bucks are currently in 11th place in the Eastern Conference standings with a record of 18-26. They have lost five of their last six games and struggle significantly in Antetokounmpo’s absence, with a 3-11 record when he does not play.

Antetokounmpo’s Determination

Despite the challenges, Antetokounmpo remains determined to recover and assist his team. He expressed regret about not exiting the game sooner to protect his health. “I don’t like to quit,” he said. He ended the game with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, despite feeling limited in his performance.

His anticipated return, if all goes well, could see him back on the court by late February or early March. The Bucks desperately need their star player to turn their season around and secure a playoff spot.