For the first time this season, the Milwaukee Bucks will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo in a game. The seven-time All-Star is currently dealing with a calf problem and has been ruled out for Wednesday’s clash against the Toronto Raptors, leaving Milwaukee shorthanded as they try to avenge their early-season blowout loss to Toronto.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Calf Injury
This calf injury appears to be a new issue for Antetokounmpo. Earlier this season, the former back-to-back MVP was dealing with an ankle problem, which he was able to play through.
On Tuesday, Giannis was initially listed as probable to play due to a minor calf strain. However, it has now been deemed significant enough for the 28-year-old to miss his first game of the season for Milwaukee.
It is worth noting that the Bucks have an upcoming back-to-back set on Friday and Saturday against the Charlotte Hornets and the Dallas Mavericks, respectively. At this point, it is unclear what Antetokounmpo’s status will be for both games.
Milwaukee Bucks Fans React to Giannis’ Injury
Giannis’ sudden injury absence garnered all sorts of reactions from Bucks fans on social media. The unexpected turn of events drew a bit of panic from some overeager supporters:
Yup we’re cooked
— 34 Hater (@marjon_burner) November 15, 2023
Season over
— Bobby 🦌 (@B_Redell13) November 15, 2023
— Joe (@mcrjoe_) November 15, 2023
6-5 I guess.
— Logan (@LoganLi2224) November 15, 2023
Probable doesn't mean shit with the Bucks. So freaking frustrating. They must lead the league in probably injury designations that change to out and probably by a lot
— Downtown Brown (@downtown_brown) November 15, 2023
Others, however, saw the silver lining in Antetokounmpo’s absence. A lot of fans believe that this could be Damian Lillard’s time to shine:
We getting a Dame game tonight
— UK Bucks (@UK_Bucks) November 15, 2023
Dame about to try and carry like Gianni’s when dame was out and drop 50. Just might not be enough.
— Nintendo Prime (@NintyPrime) November 15, 2023
Over to Dame @Dame_Lillard
— UncleVegas (@d_renzel) November 15, 2023
Dame first game with no Giannis
— Brooklyn (@bmaurice64) November 15, 2023
Dame for 43
— Gunslinger10 (@Gunslinger127) November 15, 2023
Lillard will have a point to prove when he goes out there tonight. This will be the first time he leads the Bucks without Giannis in the picture. It will be very interesting to see how this plays out.
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