Giannis Antetokounmpo Sidelined with Bruised Shoulder, Bucks Fall to Cavaliers
Milwaukee’s Reigning MVP Absent as Team Suffers Crushing Defeat
Milwaukee, WI – The Milwaukee Bucks were dealt a resounding 135-95 defeat by the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night, with their talismanic leader Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a bruised right shoulder.
Antetokounmpo, the reigning NBA MVP and a perennial All-Star, has been a beacon of consistency for the Bucks this season, averaging 31.2 points and 11.4 rebounds. His absence was a major blow to the team, and the Cavaliers capitalized on the opportunity, extending their winning streak to six games.
This isn’t the first time Antetokounmpo’s availability has been in question this season. Before Sunday’s game against the Sacramento Kings, he was listed on the injury report but defied expectations and took to the court, delivering a stellar performance with 27 points in Milwaukee’s narrow 143-142 overtime victory.
The 29-year-old superstar has been a workhorse for the Bucks, playing in 29 consecutive games, his longest streak since the 2020-21 season when he featured in 31 straight games. While the injury is not expected to sideline him for an extended period, his absence was keenly felt against the Cavaliers.
Despite the setback, the Bucks received a boost with the return of forward Jae Crowder, who had been out of action since November 11 due to a torn adductor muscle. Crowder made an immediate impact in his comeback game, contributing 15 points, one rebound, and one steal in 19 minutes of playing time.
Antetokounmpo’s Injury History
Giannis Antetokounmpo has had a relatively clean bill of health throughout his career, but he has had a few notable injuries. In the 2019-20 season, he missed 15 games due to a sprained right knee. He also missed six games in the 2020-21 season due to a left knee hyperextension.
Bucks’ Performance Without Antetokounmpo
The Bucks have struggled in the absence of Antetokounmpo. In the 11 games he missed last season, they went 5-6. This season, they are 1-1 without him.
Crowder’s Return
Jae Crowder’s return is a welcome boost for the Bucks. He is a versatile defender who can also knock down shots from the outside. His presence should help to take some of the pressure off Antetokounmpo when he returns.
Bucks’ Playoff Hopes
The Bucks are currently the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference. They are still in contention for the top spot, but they need Antetokounmpo healthy and playing at his best to make a deep playoff run.
Conclusion
The Milwaukee Bucks suffered a disappointing loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night, but the bigger story was the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a bruised right shoulder. While the injury is not expected to be long-term, it is a reminder of how important Antetokounmpo is to the Bucks’ success. With the playoffs approaching, the Bucks will need their superstar to be healthy and at his best if they want to make a deep run.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.