Giannis Antetokounmpo is largely expected to miss Game 1 of the Milwaukee Bucks’ Round 1 showdown with the Indiana Pacers. Interestingly, though, he was not ruled out on the injury report heading to the game.
Antetokounmpo is currently dealing with a calf injury that could take weeks to heal, but his status could provide some hope that the issue isn’t too severe.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Injury Status for Milwaukee Bucks vs. Indiana Pacers

On the latest injury report released Saturday, Antetokounmpo has been listed as doubtful for the contest with the Pacers. As mentioned, it’s unlikely that he will play, but it’s definitely intriguing to see that the Bucks didn’t rule him out completely.
A “Doubtful” designation suggests that there is a higher likelihood that the player doesn’t suit up for the game. But given everything that has been reported about Antetokounmpo’s status, one would expect that the Bucks would list him as out from the start.
Does this mean Antetokounmpo is closer to returning? Or is it just gamesmanship on the part of the Bucks to keep the Greek Freak’s status a mystery so as not to give the Pacers any advantage when it comes to preparation?
Regardless of their intent, Bucks fans shouldn’t have their hopes up on Antetokounmpo miraculously healing and suiting up in Game 1. It’s just unlikely at this point.

It’s worth noting that Antetokunmpo hasn’t done any real live practice ever since his injury earlier in April, with head coach Doc Rivers saying that he has gone through walk-throughs on the floor but nothing else.
Giannis Antetokounmpo Injury Timelines for Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Soleus injury is already expected to take weeks to heal, though recent updates suggest things could be worse for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Recently, Shams Charania of The Athletic and Stadium noted that it’s possible Antetokounmpo takes up to four weeks to recover and rehab from his ailment, which would mean he could be out for the rest of the series against the Indiana Pacers.
“He is doubtful to start this series. I’m told this injury could be anywhere from two to four weeks, potentially. And we know his superhuman ability. But that clearly puts his status for this series in jeopardy,” Charania shared on Saturday.
Of course hopes are high that it won’t take that long for Antetokounmpo to return. But for the Bucks, they really need to prepare for the possibility that they won’t be with their superstar for the series, not just in a couple of games.

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