When Brook Lopez underwent back surgery in early December, the Milwaukee Bucks gave little clarity on his possible timeline for return. They didn't completely rule out the idea of him playing this season, but Mike Budenholzer also wouldn't commit to that notion.

Well, according to Zach Lowe of ESPN, the Bucks are feeling “optimistic that he could be back in the mix before the squad makes another run at a title:

“What I’ve heard from inside the organization is they remain optimistic Lopez is going to come back before the playoffs, maybe well before the playoffs.”

Milwaukee hasn't exactly missed Lopez a ton, though. Giannis Antetokounmpo dominates at center. So does Bobby Portis, who has generally started in place of Lopez. In the long run though, the Bucks would love to have more big options and rim protectors. Lopez provides just that. He averaged 12.3 points, five rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game last season.

Lopez played just one contest in 2021/22 before going on the shelf. He was undoubtedly an important part of the Bucks' championship run and it will be a huge boost if he's available to help out once again. It would also allow Budenholzer to switch up rotations and potentially either bring Portis off the bench again, or maybe even give Lopez a different role.