De’Aaron Fox Added to All-Star Game as Giannis Antetokounmpo Sidelined
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The Milwaukee Bucks confirmed that forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will not participate in Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game because of a strained right calf, an injury that has kept him out since Jan. 23.
Antetokounmpo had been selected to the World Team under the league’s new three-team format. With his withdrawal, Commissioner Adam Silver named De’Aaron Fox of the Sacramento Kings as the replacement player. Fox will join the USA Stripes squad, while Norman Powell moves into the World lineup, a switch that aligns with Powell’s Jamaican roots.
Despite missing the exhibition, Antetokounmpo will remain involved in All-Star Weekend. The Bucks said he plans to help coach Friday’s Celebrity Game and will be on the bench supporting his World teammates during Sunday’s showcase.
The 29-year-old star is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists this season, but Milwaukee sits 12th in the Eastern Conference, outside the play-in spots. Trade speculation surrounded Antetokounmpo leading up to last week’s deadline, and the timeline for his return is expected to shape the Bucks’ strategy for the remainder of the season.
Source: Hoops Wire
