Giannis Antetokounmpo has been listed as “doubtful” after undergoing an MRI on his left knee ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks’ crucial Eastern Conference finals Game 5.
The Bucks take on the Atlanta Hawks in Milwaukee with the series tied at 2-2 after losing Game 4 after Antetokounmpo went down injured in the third quarter.
Milwaukee confirmed the latest in a medical update on Wednesday.
“Antetokounmpo sustained a hyperextended left knee and will be listed as doubtful for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals tomorrow night at Fiserv Forum,” the statement said.
“Antetokounmpo, 26, underwent an MRI and subsequent examination today by team physician Dr. Carole Vetter of the Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health network.
“The MRI confirmed the earlier diagnosis. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.”
The Greek forward’s absence is a major blow for the Bucks, although the Hawks are also sweating on Trae Young’s fitness after he missed Game 4 with bone bruising in his foot.
Atlanta are yet to confirm any news on Young’s availability for Game 5.
Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer said: “We’re pretty positive and we’ll take it day by day and see how he’s doing.”
He added: “Giannis is going to go everything he can to be available. We’re going to put his health and safety first.
“When you talk about the range of possibilities, where this has landed has to be looked at as a positive. It’s still a really difficult fall. It’s part of sport and the playoffs, we’ll manage it.”
Despite Giannis’ likely absence, the Bucks remain favourites for Game 5 on home court. The uncertainty around Young is also a factor.
