Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Absence Leaves Bucks Vulnerable in Loss to Cavaliers
Milwaukee’s Reigning MVP Sits Out with Bruised Shoulder
Milwaukee, WI – February 22, 2024 – The Milwaukee Bucks fell to the Cleveland Cavaliers 135-95 on Wednesday night, in a game that saw reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a bruised right shoulder. Antetokounmpo, who has been a cornerstone of the Bucks’ success in recent years, was a late scratch from the lineup, with the team announcing his absence just two hours before tipoff.
Without their superstar, the Bucks struggled to keep pace with the high-flying Cavaliers. Milwaukee shot just 38.5% from the field and committed 18 turnovers, while Cleveland shot a blistering 53.1% and connected on 17 three-pointers.
Despite the disappointing loss, the Bucks received some positive news with the return of forward Jae Crowder, who had been sidelined since November 11 with a torn adductor muscle. Crowder made an immediate impact in his return, contributing 15 points, one rebound, and one steal in 19 minutes of action.
Antetokounmpo’s Injury History: A Cause for Concern?
Antetokounmpo’s bruised right shoulder is the latest in a series of injuries that have plagued the Bucks’ superstar in recent seasons. While Antetokounmpo has been remarkably durable throughout his career, playing in over 90% of his team’s games, there have been concerns about his long-term health.
In the 2021-22 season, Antetokounmpo missed 15 games due to a hyperextended left knee. He also missed several games in the 2020-21 season due to a sprained right ankle.
Antetokounmpo’s physical style of play has led some to question whether he can maintain his high level of production over the long haul. The Bucks have been cautious in managing his minutes and workload, but it remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to prevent further injuries.
The Bucks’ Outlook Without Giannis Antetokounmpo
The Bucks have shown that they can win games without Giannis Antetokounmpo, but they are a much more formidable team when he is on the court. In the 15 games that Antetokounmpo missed last season, the Bucks went 7-8.
This season, the Bucks are 1-1 in the two games that Antetokounmpo has missed. However, both of those games were against teams with losing records.
The Bucks have a talented roster, with Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and Brook Lopez all capable of putting up big numbers. However, none of those players can match Antetokounmpo’s all-around impact on the game.
If Antetokounmpo is forced to miss an extended period of time, the Bucks will need to find a way to generate offense from other sources. They will also need to improve their defense, as they have struggled to stop opponents when Antetokounmpo is not on the court.
The Bucks are still one of the favorites to win the NBA championship, but Antetokounmpo’s injury raises some question marks about their ability to repeat as champions. The team will need to find a way to cope with his absence and rely on other players to step up in his place.