Milwaukee — Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to miss between two and four weeks after straining his right calf Wednesday night against Detroit, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. The two-time MVP slipped during the second quarter, remained on the floor until head coach Doc Rivers called timeout, then limped to the locker room. Additional imaging is planned, but early estimates point to a multi-week recovery.
The injury occurred the same day ESPN reported that Antetokounmpo and team officials opened conversations about his long-term future in Milwaukee, including the possibility of exploring trade options.
Dallas Finds Spark in Nembhard
With Kyrie Irving still out, the Mavericks have turned to undrafted rookie guard Ryan Nembhard, who is on a two-way contract. Head coach Jason Kidd had previously tried Cooper Flagg, D’Angelo Russell and Brandon Williams at the position without success. Nembhard has now started four straight games, helping Dallas win three of them.
Over that stretch, the 23-year-old is averaging 17.0 points and 7.5 assists while shooting 65 percent from the floor and nearly 67 percent from three-point range. According to the team, he is the first undrafted rookie ever to record consecutive games of at least 15 points and 10 assists, and the first rookie since turnovers became an official stat to post a two-game line of 40 points, 20 assists and no more than one turnover.
Veteran center Anthony Davis praised the newcomer’s on-court communication, saying Nembhard often directs teammates in real time and “makes the right play every trip.”
Because Dallas is close to the league’s second tax apron, the club cannot immediately waive injured guard Dante Exum to convert Nembhard’s deal without leaving roughly $12,000 in cap space. His two-way cap hit drops in early January, giving the Mavericks a clearer path to a standard contract then. Nembhard has appeared in 16 of his allotted 50 active games.
“I’m focused on doing my job and winning games,” Nembhard told the Dallas Morning News, adding that contract matters will be handled by his representatives.
Pacers Retain Mathews, Welcome Furphy Back
The Indiana Pacers have signed guard Garrison Mathews to a second 10-day deal despite his 2-for-13 start from three-point range and four scoreless outings in his first five games. Head coach Rick Carlisle said the club believed Mathews’ work would eventually translate, and the veteran responded with 24 points on 6-of-7 shooting in recent contests against Cleveland and Denver.
Indiana also regained rookie wing Johnny Furphy, who returned from a one-month absence due to an ankle sprain. Furphy had a limited impact versus Denver, but Carlisle said his presence adds needed depth to the rotation.
“He brings a different element,” the coach noted. “We need all the help we can get.”
The Pacers continue a four-game road trip Friday.
Source: Hoops Wire
