Injuries have been the Milwaukee Bucks’ most prominent obstacle over the last few years, and that won’t stop anytime soon. In Monday’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Giannis Antetokounmpo exited early due to what the team called a groin strain. He was swiftly ruled out for the remainder of the matchup. That could be problematic for a Bucks team that was already enduring turbulence.
The Bucks already cannot escape injuries
It goes without saying that Giannis is the engine that drives this Bucks team. Outside of a big win over the Warriors earlier this season, Milwaukee simply hasn’t looked good when Giannis misses a game. Heck, they struggle to stay afloat when he does play and needs to catch his breath on the bench for a minute or two. If he has to miss extended time, the Milwaukee Bucks will face a significant challenge.
Injuries have already taken a toll on the roster this season. Kevin Porter Jr. played just a few minutes before suffering an ankle injury and then a meniscus injury upon ramping up to return. Small forward Taurean Prince is out of the lineup indefinitely after undergoing surgery to repair a herniated disc in his neck. Now, Giannis might miss some time with this groin strain.
Now, nothing is set in stone with Giannis. Knowing his seemingly superhuman healing ability, he may be back out there sooner rather than later. Yet, the Milwaukee Bucks will also be cautious with their star player. They need him for the long haul. If he misses a game or two or three, others will have to step up to keep this ship running in his absence. Next man up.
It starts with the big men. Myles Turner has been hot and cold, and this would be an opportunity for him to welcome an increased workload on both ends. Bobby Portis has regressed this season, but a bigger role could give him a chance to show that it was only temporary. Even Jericho Sims, who is a depth piece almost every single night, would likely see some increased time for Milwaukee.
The Milwaukee Bucks would have to make some tweaks, given their Giannis-centered philosophy, but that matchup against Golden State showed that they can be competitive without their star. For now, all the Bucks can do is get more information on that groin strain and formulate a plan from there.
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