Bucks weigh Giannis’ comeback while Thunder welcome Jalen Williams; Ingram added to All-Star roster
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Bucks
Milwaukee still faces a pivotal choice regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s season as the two-time MVP rehabs a calf strain. After failing to land extra help at the trade deadline, the club must decide whether to chase a play-in berth or safeguard its lottery odds. A Western Conference executive told ESPN’s Jamal Collier, “Everything they do is in service of Giannis,” adding that Milwaukee would pursue the play-in if Antetokounmpo pushes for it. Head coach Doc Rivers recently indicated the forward “may not be far off,” leaving the franchise’s next move tied directly to Antetokounmpo’s readiness.
Thunder
Oklahoma City got an immediate lift from Jalen Williams, who returned after missing 10 games with a hamstring strain. The second-year guard poured in 23 points—10 of them in the fourth quarter—to seal a 119-110 victory over the Lakers in Los Angeles. “He slammed the door on that game,” head coach Mark Daigneault said, noting the team’s focus was simply having Williams back on the floor.
Raptors
Brandon Ingram earned his second career All-Star selection, replacing injured guard Stephen Curry. Now in his first season with Toronto, the 28-year-old forward is averaging 22.0 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists while pacing the Raptors in scoring. He will join a USA Stripes lineup featuring LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard when the new All-Star format tips off.
Source: Hoops Wire
