The Milwaukee Bucks won't have their best player Giannis Antetokounmpo on the floor against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on Saturday. Coach Mike Budenholzer explains it as a precaution due to left knee soreness.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is listed as doubtful with left knee soreness on the Bucks’ first injury report for tonight’s game against the Kings.
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) April 3, 2021
Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer addressed the two-time NBA MVP's sudden inability, per Eric Nehm of The Athletic.
“Just understanding big picture, wanting him to feel as healthy and whole and everything as we go forward. Tonight, with what he's feeling and everything that's happened over the last seven to ten days, I think him not playing is the wise move.”
Antetokounmpo has been bothered by that left knee for several weeks now but it doesn't seem to hinder his ability to play at a high level. In fact, The Greek Freak had monster outings last three games since returning from injury. This was capped off by a 47-point performance in Milwaukee's 127-109 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers in their last match.
Giannis could probably give it a go, considering he won't have to play heavy minutes if the Bucks dominate the hapless Kings early on as expected. It's probably just some good old load management for the 26-year-old megastar and he'll likely be in uniform in their next game.
Plus, it's the Kings, so the Bucks can certainly afford to play without Giannis. Even the undermanned Los Angeles Lakers did not have much trouble against Sacramento in their previous match.
The Bucks, meanwhile, currently rank third in the East with a 31-17 win-loss slate and are gearing up for another strong playoff run. For sure, they'll want to give Giannis some time off to keep him freshfor the coming battles.
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