Giannis Antetokounmpo’s calf strain will keep him out of next weekend’s NBA All-Star Game, dealing a blow to fans hoping to see the Milwaukee Bucks superstar in action.
The two-time MVP hasn’t played since February 2nd, and he’ll be sidelined for at least another week, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Sunday.
“If this was a playoff game, would he play? Probably yes,” Bucks coach Doc Rivers said. “But this isn’t. And we want to make sure he’s playing in the playoffs.”
It’s a tough break for Giannis, who was the top vote-getter among fans for this year’s All-Star Game. This would’ve been his ninth straight appearance in the league’s midseason showcase.
The Greek Freak was supposed to suit up for Team Chuck, one of the four teams in the All-Star Game’s new format. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver will now need to pick someone to take his spot.
The Bucks are being extra careful with their franchise player. He’ll miss upcoming games against the Golden State Warriors and Minnesota Timberwolves, making it at least six straight games on the sideline.
“We’re really hoping that when we come out of the break, we have our team,” Rivers added. The Bucks’ first game after the break is February 20 against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Giannis has been absolutely dominant when healthy this season. He’s putting up incredible numbers:
– 31.8 points per game
– 12.2 rebounds
– 5.9 assists
– Shooting an amazing 60.8% from the field
Only Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is scoring more points per game this season.
The Bucks have struggled without their superstar, going 4-5 in games he’s missed. That’s not surprising given how important he is to everything they do.
This isn’t the first time Giannis has dealt with injuries this season. He missed a game last week with a right knee issue before this left calf problem popped up.
When he returns, he’ll look to add to his impressive resume, which already includes eight straight All-NBA selections and five All-Defensive Team honors. He’s also the only non-American player ever to win All-Star Game MVP, which he did in 2021 with an incredible 35-point performance in just 19 minutes.
