The 2021 NBA champions started the postseason journey without star Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Milwaukee Bucks are set to give a crucial Game 3 against the Indiana Pacers after losing the home advantage in Game 2.
Antetokounmpo is listed as doubtful ahead of Game 3 on Friday, but,according to his coach Doc Rivers he’s getting closer to be back in action.
“He’s getting close,” Rivers said on Giannis Antetokounmpo, via Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. “But, I don’t know what that even means. I’m being honest. I saw him moving around and in my mind I said he’s getting close. Does that mean a day, four days? I’m not sure.”
Starting the series, Giannis was doubtful as he is dealing with a strain of the left soleus muscle, which is one of a trio of muscles in the lower leg. He ended the regular season on a boot, but it was removed when Milwaukee Bucks started the series against the Pacers.
The two-time MVP appeared in 73 games and averaged 30.4 points, 11.5 rebounds and a career-high 6.5 assists shooting 61% from the field.
After Giannis, Khris Middleton could potentially miss Game 3
Khris Middleton did not participate in the Milwaukee’s latest practice as he rolled his right ankle in the first quarter of the Bucks’ loss Tuesday. Middleton went to the locker room and returned to the game after taping his ankle.
He played 36 minutes and went 6-for-14 from the field for 15 points as the Bucks fell to the Indiana Pacers to lose the home advantage.
When he was asked about Middleton, Doc Rivers said that the Bucks are holding their breath hoping to have the All-Star forward in the upcoming game.
“Yeah, there’s a little for sure. It’s another holding our breath situation. So, honestly, I don’t know.”
The Bucks are set to meet the Pacers on Friday as Indiana hosts its first Playoff game since 2020.
