In response to recent speculation regarding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future, Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers emphasized the team’s primary focus: regaining health and improving performance after a rocky 9-13 start. “The top priority is to get healthy and then determine our direction,” Rivers stated ahead of Wednesday’s matchup against the Detroit Pistons. “We are optimistic about this team, but we need to elevate our game and secure victories.”
With point guard Kevin Porter Jr. back in the starting lineup from an early-season injury, Wednesday’s game was meant to be the Bucks’ third consecutive contest with a nearly full roster. Taurean Prince was the sole player from Rivers’ rotation still on the inactive list at the season’s outset.
However, just three minutes into what turned into a surprising win against the top team in the Eastern Conference, Antetokounmpo sustained a right calf strain. He is now expected to be sidelined for two to four weeks, marking his second extended absence this season. “We’re back in action with Porter returning, but we might lose Giannis again,” Rivers commented post-game. “We need to find ways to win games despite these injuries. If we can get healthy—I really like our team—we just can’t seem to catch a health break.”
The Bucks faced challenges during Antetokounmpo’s earlier four-game absence, losing every match. They were competitive, nearly winning against teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat. Nonetheless, Milwaukee must discover how to win without their star player once more.
Kevin Porter Jr. Returns
Since his return, Porter has averaged 23 points, 3.3 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 2.0 steals over 30.3 minutes in three games. Although there may be concerns about the quality of opposition faced in his early games, his impressive shooting percentage of 55.8 indicates his high-level talent. His presence is expected to significantly ease the burden on the team, especially following Antetokounmpo’s absence.
AJ Green’s Development
In his fourth NBA season, AJ Green has demonstrated growth as a player, notably increasing his 3-point attempts to an average of 6.9 per game, with a success rate of 49.7%. The coaching staff encourages him to take on challenging shots, leading to newfound confidence in his shooting skills. Without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks will likely lean on Green’s shooting ability even more.
Defensive Adjustments
While the Bucks are unlikely to be as defensively strong without Antetokounmpo— their most versatile defender—this time around, they have made adjustments since his last absence. Porter’s return allows him and Ryan Rollins to share the defensive duties, alleviating pressure from Rollins, who had to defend the top perimeter players alone previously. This duality in defense could prove beneficial.
As they prepare to continue without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks appear better equipped defensively than before. Their familiarity with zone defense has grown, potentially giving them an advantage. “While no one prefers to play zone, perfecting it is essential,” Porter noted. The team’s increased defensive talent and strategic knowledge could aid them as they navigate this challenging period.
