Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo missed the last two-plus games of the Eastern Conference Finals. With Giannis sidelined, his teammates came up big in Games 5 and 6, winning both contests to advance to the NBA Finals.

While The Greek Freak couldn't put his immense talent to good use on the court, he still made a massive impact from the bench. Antetokounmpo's leadership was on full display, as he could often be seen celebrating big plays and giving his own coaching to his Bucks teammates, especially during the series-clinching Game 6.

Jrue Holiday certainly noticed, via ESPN's Eric Nehm:

“This is probably the most I’ve seen Giannis talk, like the whole game,” Holiday said. “I know usually when he’s on the court and he’s running, racing through five people and blocking shots, I mean, you’re tired. He’s tired and he’s playing. But man, he’s motivating everybody, he’s motivating me, telling me to push the pace, telling me to keep being aggressive and telling me to lock people up.”

Holiday and Khris Middleton led the way without Giannis in a 118-107 Game 6 victory. Holiday nearly notched a triple-double with 27 points, nine rebounds and nine assists plus some great defense against a hobbled Trae Young, while Middleton poured in a game-high 32 points. Middleton also had seven assists, four rebounds and three steals in a terrific all-around performance. His big third quarter helped the Bucks gain separation, and they held off a late Hawks charge to win the series.

It's unclear if Antetokounmpo will be available for Game 1 of the NBA Finals. Even if he's not ready to start the series, or if he doesn't return at all, you can bet on him making his presence felt on the bench. Any little bit will help the Bucks against a strong Phoenix Suns team.