The Milwaukee Bucks, despite the inconsistencies and mid-season coach change, were expected to take care of business early. But the unavailability of Giannis Antetokounmpo turned out to be quite a downer for the team. Damian Lillard had stepped up to the occasion. Unfortunately, the second superstar of Milwaukee also succumbed to injury. Game 5 should have been the end of the Bucks. Going into battle without their general and lieutenant isn’t exactly ideal.

But Milwaukee defied all odds as they overcame the series-leading Pacers in a 115-92 victory. Indiana is still leading, and there is no doubt that they aren’t going to be as lax as they were in Game 5. Under such high-tense circumstances, the Bucks’ first injury report has dropped. Athletic’s Eric Nehm tweeted the candidates on the list.

Giannis and Damian are ‘Doubtful’ with a left soleus strain and right Achilles tendinitis, respectively. If you thought they were the only ones, the report has two more under the ‘Probable’ list. Patrick Beverley, with a right oblique strain, and Khris Middleton, with a right ankle sprain, are the next duo.

Definitely not ideal. Middleton was a crucial factor in the team’s Game 5 win, scoring a game-high double-double (29-12). But it came with the cost of him picking up the ankle injury. Khris also mentioned another factor that encouraged them to overcome the Pacers. “They’re [Dame and Giannis] into it … Whenever they see little something in the game, they speak to us about it. It’s great to have their support on the bench. I wish they were out there with us,” Middleton finished on a hopeful note.

He and every Milwaukee fan wish the pair were out on the floor. But to take the risk at the expense of Antetokounmpo or Lillard‘s health is an aspect the franchise wouldn’t want to gamble on. And considering everything, both Middleton and Pat Bev’s unavailability, if it comes to that, won’t end well for the Milwaukee Bucks.

What happened to Milwaukee superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo?

Giannis Antetokounmpo has remained sidelined since a strained calf on April 9 during the Bucks’ win over Boston. The “Greek Freak” has missed eight games, including the playoffs. Each time Coach Rivers is asked for an update on the 2x MVP’s condition, he repeats that he hopes for their presence and that they are close to returning.

But ultimately, it is the medical team that has to give the green signal. And of course, Antetokounmpo has to feel like he can make an impact. The 2021 Finals MVP wouldn’t dream of becoming a liability for the team. But Doc did say that Giannis had gotten around to running around the court for a Sunday workout. But prior to Tuesday’s game, the improvement had diminished.

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Well, the Bucks are hoping to keep the engine running until their leading stars can get back on the court. But the Pacers aren’t going to make it any easier for them. Hopefully, there will be a positive change in the injury report ahead of the tip-off.