Two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has been upgraded to probable by the Milwaukee Bucks for tonight’s encounter against the Washington Wizards. The “Greek Freak” sat out Sunday’s first meeting between the two teams due to left knee soreness.
The Bucks were severely short-handed as Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday were also ruled out. Without their big three, the Bucks succumbed to a 118-95 thumping at the hands of the Wizards.
Tonight’s matchup will be significantly different despite Middleton continuing to sit out. Both Antetokounmpo and Holiday are expected to play in their rematch with Washington.
The former NBA Defensive Player of the Year has been thoroughly dominant in his last two games. He exploded for 45 points, 22 rebounds and seven assists against the Chicago Bulls last Wednesday. Antetokounmpo followed it up with 43 points, 20 rebounds and five assists against the Minnesota Timberwolves last Friday.
Antetokounmpo’s consecutive 40-point, 20-rebound games are the first in the NBA since Moses Malone did it back in 1982.
The Bucks are struggling right now, losing five of their last six games. Having Giannis Antetokounmpo back will not guarantee a win, but they’re surely in better shape when the six-time NBA All-Star is available.
Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards could miss Bradley Beal, the team’s franchise player. The three-time NBA All-Star is dealing with left hamstring soreness. He started to feel discomfort in that area in the Wizards’ 116-111 win over the Philadelphia 76ers last December 28.
Beal has missed Washington’s last three games, including the initial meeting between the Bucks. He may also miss the rematch if nothing changes in his status.
The Wizards’ starting shooting guard has played just 23 of the team’s 38 games, averaging 23.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists.
Washington have seemingly played well without Bradley Beal. After losing 11 of their last 12 games, they are now on a five-game winning streak.
Having Beal in the lineup tonight, however, will be very helpful as the Milwaukee Bucks could bring back Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday. Both superstars were ruled out with their respective injuries two nights ago.
Robert Williams III: Left knee injury management
#NEBHInjuryReport for tomorrow vs. Oklahoma City: Danilo Gallinari (left knee ACL repair) – OUT Robert Williams (left knee injury management) – QUESTIONABLE
They’ve somehow adjusted to his presence and have reeled off four straight wins before losing the other night to the Denver Nuggets.
Al Horford and Luke Kornet will see more minutes against the OKC Thunder if Williams sits out another game.
Jrue Holiday Non-Covid illness since December 28, 2022
Jrue Holiday (illness) listed probable for Tuesday.