Giannis Antetokounmpo made his comeback after a six-week absence due to a calf strain during the Milwaukee Bucks’ 108-81 loss to the Boston Celtics. The two-time NBA MVP, now 31, recorded 19 points, 11 rebounds, and two assists in 25 minutes, but admitted that his performance was below expectations. Despite the defeat, Antetokounmpo expressed relief simply to be back on the court during the critical final stretch of the season.
Player Reflects on Performance and Remaining Season Challenges
After missing 15 games, Antetokounmpo acknowledged his need to adjust his playing style moving forward.
“Obviously I did not play well, but at the end of the day, I’m just happy that I’m out there being able to help my team-mates in any way that I can and just do what I love, which is play basketball,”
he said. Emphasizing his mindset, he added,
“I’m just happy that I’m on the court. It doesn’t matter if I play 18 minutes, 20 minutes, 22, whatever, I’m just happy that I’m out there.”
Addressing the team’s fight to secure a playoff spot, Antetokounmpo noted,
“we’ve got 24 games left – it’s 24 fights.”
He also mentioned the necessity of smarter play, stating,
“got to be smarter moving forward because things that I was able to do in the past, maybe I’m not able to do now.”
Coach Doc Rivers Discusses Careful Approach for Giannis’ Return
Giannis’ injury occurred in January, just before the NBA trade deadline, a period marked by speculation he might be traded, which ultimately did not happen. Bucks coach Doc Rivers emphasized a cautious approach to reintroducing Antetokounmpo to the lineup.
“I’m not going to overdo it,”
Rivers said ahead of the Celtics game.
“It’s not like we had a big practice or a shootaround on Monday morning, so it’s not the ideal way of bringing him back. But the fact that he’s available, you put him in and you figure it out.”
Impact on Bucks’ Season and Outlook
The Bucks’ 108-81 loss to the Celtics places them 11th in the Eastern Conference with a 26-34 record, underscoring the uphill battle they face in making the playoffs. Antetokounmpo’s return offers a boost, but both player and coaching staff recognize that regaining peak form and consistency will be vital over the remaining 24 games. How the Bucks capitalize on the presence of their star player in these final matches will greatly influence their postseason chances.
