milwaukee– giannis antetokounmpoPossible return date remains uncertain milwaukee bucks The forward has recovered from a calf strain which he predicted could keep him out for four to six weeks.
The two-time MVP also said after the Bucks’ 102-100 loss to Denver on Friday that an MRI would reveal whether he has a calf or soleus strain in his right leg. Bucks coach Doc Rivers confirmed the diagnosis of a calf strain on Monday, but did not speculate on when Antetokounmpo might return.
“There’s really no timetable,” Rivers said.
Antetokounmpo, 31, strained his right calf in the first half of the game against Denver. He didn’t look comfortable all night and was fouled with 34 seconds remaining.
“I felt like I couldn’t explode,” Antetokounmpo said after the game. “I could jog. I couldn’t stand on my toes, so I jogged on my heels most of the game. I didn’t have as much explosiveness, but I still thought I could help. Finally, when it popped, I had to get out. I couldn’t walk.”
Antetokounmpo previously missed eight games from Dec. 5-26 with a right calf strain. His left calf strain caused him to miss the 2024 playoffs and the 2025 All-Star Game.
Rivers said the Bucks have not considered resting Antetokounmpo for the remainder of the season despite his history of calf problems.
“No idea on it,” Rivers said. “But listen, there’s no timetable either.”
The Bucks (18-26) have lost five of their last six games and are 11th in the Eastern Conference standings, putting their streak of nine consecutive playoff berths in serious jeopardy. They have gone 15-15 with Antetokounmpo this season and 3-11 without him.
Antetokounmpo admitted Friday that if the Bucks had a much better record, he would have taken himself out of that game much earlier. Instead he played 32 minutes and had 22 points, 13 rebounds and seven assists.
Bucks adds, “I think it speaks volumes about his character and who he is as a person and player.” bobby portis Said.
Antetokounmpo is averaging 28 points, 10 rebounds and 5.6 assists in 30 games this season.
The Bucks have also played their last two games without their second-leading scorer. Kevin Porter Jr.. Due to an oblique strain. Rivers said there is no indication yet when Porter will be available again.
