Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Calf Woes Strike Again: Star Set to Miss Up to 6 Weeks, Bucks’ Playoff Hopes in Peril
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is facing another lengthy stint on the sidelines after aggravating a right calf injury during a 102-100 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Friday night. The two-time MVP had his calf wrapped in the first half, but struggled to play through the pain, and was forced to exit the game with just 34 seconds left.
“I couldn’t move anymore, so I had to stop playing,” Antetokounmpo said, visibly frustrated after the game. The injury is a recurrence of a similar issue that caused him to miss eight games earlier this season. Following the game, the 28-year-old shared that he expects to undergo an MRI on Saturday, though he already anticipates a familiar diagnosis.
“I’ve been around the NBA long enough to know this feels like a calf strain again. They’ll probably tell me it’s a popped muscle, either in the calf or the soleus. I expect to be out for 4-6 weeks, based on my previous experience,” Antetokounmpo explained. He added that he’ll push hard to return by late February or early March.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers shared similar concerns, noting that the recurring calf issue is a serious concern. “It keeps coming up, and that’s troubling. There’s something going on with his calf, and it’s worrying for all of us,” Rivers remarked.
Antetokounmpo had previously been limited to a minutes restriction after returning from the first calf injury on Dec. 27. Milwaukee’s playoff hopes are now in jeopardy, with the team currently sitting at 18-26 and 11th in the Eastern Conference. They’ve only won 3 of 14 games without their star forward, further highlighting the severity of his absence.
Despite the injury, Antetokounmpo pushed through to record 22 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists before being forced to leave the court. His commitment to playing through pain showed just how much he is willing to sacrifice for his team’s success.
