Giannis Antetokounmpo intends to return to Bucks lineup when calf is fully healed
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Milwaukee, WI — Giannis Antetokounmpo does not plan to end his season early, league sources told The Athletic’s Eric Nehm. The Milwaukee Bucks star is rehabbing a right calf strain and expects to play again once cleared by team medical staff.
Milwaukee has slipped to 20-29 and currently sits outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture. While the organization internally discussed shutting Antetokounmpo down for the remainder of the schedule, the two-time MVP prefers to rejoin the rotation as soon as he is fully recovered.
Antetokounmpo has appeared in 30 games this season, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists, numbers in line with his usual production. The Bucks have not provided a definitive timeline for his return, but the forward’s stance is clear: if doctors approve, he will suit up.
Milwaukee kept Antetokounmpo through the trade deadline despite strong interest around the league. The Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors all inquired but made no headway. Front-office attention is expected to intensify in the offseason, with the Los Angeles Lakers viewed league-wide as a potential contender for his services, according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line.
For now, the Bucks and their franchise cornerstone remain focused on the current campaign, aiming to halt a run of three consecutive first-round playoff exits.
Source: Hoops Wire
