Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is projected to return to the lineup tonight when the Bucks face the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The two-time MVP has been sidelined since Jan. 23 with a strained right calf, missing 15 games. Milwaukee went 8–7 during that stretch and remains on the edge of the Eastern Conference play-in picture.
Although the Bucks officially list Antetokounmpo as questionable, The Athletic’s Eric Nehm reports that the team anticipates he will be available.
Bucks’ Playoff Position
Milwaukee trails the seventh- and eighth-place Orlando Magic and Miami Heat by five games. The Atlanta Hawks hold a 3.5-game advantage over the Bucks, while the Charlotte Hornets sit three games ahead in 10th place.
Season in Review
Antetokounmpo also missed three weeks in December. Through 30 appearances, he is averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists. Having sat out 29 contests, he is not eligible for postseason awards under current league rules.
Long-Term Outlook
The Bucks could have boosted their draft lottery odds by shutting down their franchise player, but the organization opted to keep pushing for the postseason. How Milwaukee finishes the campaign may influence offseason decisions about building around Antetokounmpo or exploring trade scenarios. The forward is under contract through the 2027-28 season and holds a $62.8 million player option for the final year.
Tipoff against Boston is scheduled for tonight in Milwaukee.
Source: Hoops Rumors
