Giannis Antetokounmpo has been sidelined for the Milwaukee Bucks’ last five games due to a calf injury. The 29-year-old star sustained the injury on April 9 against the Celtics and has been ruled out for Game 3 against the Pacers.
This marks Antetokounmpo’s sixth consecutive missed game as the series moves to Indiana. After winning Game 1 at home, the Bucks suffered a loss in Game 2. Speculation is rife among NBA insiders about Giannis’ potential return in this series, leaving Damian Lillard to lead the team in his absence.
Antetokounmpo’s Return Timeline
The Bucks have confirmed Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence for Game 3 against the Pacers tonight, with his return unlikely for Sunday’s game as well.
There are doubts about Giannis’ chances of returning in this series at all. pic.twitter.com/9w17hhG0rg
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) April 26, 2024
During the 2023-24 regular season, Antetokounmpo played 73 games for the Bucks but suffered a calf injury towards the end. Missing the last five games, tonight’s clash against the Pacers marks his sixth consecutive absence. With doubts looming over his return in the first round, the Bucks rely on Damian Lillard’s prowess.
Lillard joined the team this season and has been making an impact, scoring 35 points in Game 1 and another 34 in Game 2. His consistent performance is crucial as Milwaukee misses Antetokounmpo’s significant contribution of 30.4 points per game during the regular season. The team is yet to find a player who can replicate his All-NBA level output.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as out for today’s game.
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) April 26, 2024
Heading into Game 3 on the road, the Pacers are favored to win by six points. Milwaukee needs a collective effort to secure a victory in one of the next two games, aiming for a 2-2 tie before heading back home for Game 5. Role players like Khris Middleton need to step up and support Lillard, especially with Middleton averaging less than 20 points per game in this series. The game tips off at 5:30 p.m. EST.
