Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to return to the lineup Monday night against the Boston Celtics, his first game action in over five weeks, according to multiple reports. The team confirmed Antetokounmpo was listed as questionable on the injury report, signaling his anticipated return after a right calf strain.
Antetokounmpo sustained the injury January 23 during a game against the Denver Nuggets and has missed the last 15 games. Coach Doc Rivers indicated that the two-time MVP will be under a minutes restriction upon his return, stating he doesn’t seek to “overdo it” given the extended absence. “He hadn’t played in a even as, so just getting him back in and playing,” Rivers said before the game. “It’s not like we had a big practice or a shootaround this morning, so it’s not the ideal way of bringing him back.”
The Bucks have gone 8-7 without Antetokounmpo in the lineup this season, and currently hold an 11th place standing in the Eastern Conference with a 26-33 record as of Monday. They trail the Charlotte Hornets, who occupy the 10th spot and final play-in tournament berth, by three games. Prior to the injury, Antetokounmpo was averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in 30 games played this season.
The forward’s prolonged absence coincided with speculation regarding his long-term future with the Bucks, with trade rumors circulating leading up to the NBA trade deadline. Although, the team ultimately did not trade Antetokounmpo, and he has publicly expressed his desire to return to play this season. The Athletic reported last month that Antetokounmpo planned to return this season despite his injury history.
This is Antetokounmpo’s second calf strain of the season, prompting the Bucks to accept a cautious approach to his recovery. Rivers acknowledged the team’s previous attempt to bring him back too soon was unsuccessful. “We did that the first time; that didn’t function out,” he said. The Bucks will be hoping for a healthy and impactful return from their star player as they attempt to secure a spot in the play-in tournament.
