Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo suffered a low-grade left groin strain during Monday's 118-106 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers and is expected to miss one to two weeks. The two-time MVP was averaging 31.2 points, 10.8 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game entering the matchup. Coach Doc Rivers described the injury as not serious but indicated a probable two-week absence.
Giannis Antetokounmpo exited the Bucks' 118-106 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second quarter on Monday after aggravating a left groin strain. He had recorded 14 points on 6-for-10 shooting, along with five rebounds and four assists before leaving the game. Bucks coach Doc Rivers noted that Antetokounmpo had been favoring the injury earlier, stating in his postgame news conference, "He grabbed his groin, I think in the first quarter, and I asked him right away. He said it was fine. Then I think he grabbed it again and said it was fine. And then on the third time, you know, that’s when it happened. But I think it happened before, in my opinion."
On Tuesday, Rivers provided an update on the Bucks' "Courtside with Gale Klappa" podcast, saying, "I don’t know what grade it is, but I know it’s not a bad one, so that’s good news for us. But yet still, probably two weeks he’ll be out. And we’ll see. Hopefully less, but most likely in that area." Reports from ESPN indicate Antetokounmpo will miss one to two weeks with the low-grade strain.
Antetokounmpo, 30, was performing at a high level this season, ranking fourth in the NBA in scoring at 31.2 points per game, seventh in rebounding at 10.8, and 15th in assists at 6.8. He is the only player averaging at least 30 points and 10 rebounds, with his 31.2 scoring average on pace for a career high, alongside a 63% field goal percentage.
The Bucks, who sit at 8-7, have struggled without him, posting a +7.1 net rating with Antetokounmpo on the court but a -11.9 when he is off it—the fourth-worst in the league. They are already dealing with injuries to Taurean Prince, out indefinitely with a herniated disk in his neck, and Kevin Porter Jr., sidelined since the season opener due to a left ankle sprain and recent right knee meniscus surgery. Milwaukee begins a three-game homestand Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Antetokounmpo's absence could impact his award eligibility under the NBA's 65-game minimum rule for MVP and other honors. He has already missed two games this season and is listed at +1500 odds to win MVP at FanDuel Sportsbook.
