Giannis Antetokounmpo will be playing Game 5 in the Eastern Conference finals Thursday night.
After an MRI showed that he had hyperextended his left leg during Game 4 against Atlanta, the Milwaukee Bucks stated Wednesday that the two-time MVP was questionable. He was listed as ineligible to play in a revised injury report on Thursday.
Antetokounmpo was trying to stop Clint Capela’s dunk attempt in the third quarter of Hawks’ 110-88 win. __S.5__
At two games each, the Hawks and Bucks are tied. Antetokounmpo is averaging 28.2 point, 12.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game in the postseason.
According to the revised injury report, Trae Young and Capela remain questionable.
Young was unable to play in Game 4 due to a bone injury to his right foot. Capela’s right eye is irritated after he accidentally elbowed him in the face in Game 4.
The Bucks have not yet indicated how they may adjust their starting lineup to include Antetokounmpo. The Bucks made Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton the starting line-ups when Antetokounmpo was not available during the regular season.
Connaughton stated that it is not something you need to think about, “concluded Connaughton after Thursday’s shootaround regarding Antetokounmpo. It’s about being ready to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. One of the most beautiful aspects about our team, I would say is that you are called to do different things at different nights.
Milwaukee was 6-5 in the regular season, which Antetokounmpo did not see.
Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer stated Wednesday that they talk about ball movement, people movement, and playing free and organically. These things are more important if Antetokounmpo isn’t able to play. There is a lot to be proud of, so let them play. Let them play basketball at a level that is comfortable for them.
“We have played without Giannis, without Khris, without Jrue, or without anyone else, so we hope you have a structure that allows you to function at a high standard on both ends of court, no matter who is playing.”