Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks have started the 2025-26 NBA campaign on a promising note. Although they suffered a road loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers last Sunday, Milwaukee responded with a 121-111 win over the New York Knicks to move to 3-1. Before their upcoming home clash with the Golden State Warriors, Antetokounmpo appeared on the injury list due to left knee soreness but is still expected to play.
Oct 28, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) reacts after scoring a basket in the 3rd quarter against the New York Knicks at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The two-time MVP is already making a strong push for a third one. He’s posting averages of 36.3 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists per game while shooting an impressive 69.5 percent from the floor. His dominant start earned him Eastern Conference Player of the Week honors after guiding the Bucks to a 3-1 record, highlighted by a 37-point outing in their comeback victory over the New York Knicks.
Antetokounmpo’s injury tag is nothing new for Milwaukee fans. The star forward has dealt with a few minor issues early in the season but has continued to turn in dominant performances. Bucks head coach Doc Rivers said the team fully trusts its medical staff and praised Antetokounmpo’s dedication to staying in top shape.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first crack at the Warriors this season
Mar 6, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) and Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) meet after the game at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Milwaukee will rely on its star to be in peak condition as it goes up against Stephen Curry and the Warriors. The contest stands as an early challenge for the Bucks, who hope to sustain the rhythm they’ve built through the opening games. Depth has played a major role in their early success, with Ryan Rollins taking on a larger role at point guard as Kevin Porter Jr. remains sidelined with an ankle issue.
Antetokounmpo has made it clear that he expects more from himself and his teammates this season, stating after the victory over the Knicks that the Bucks “play to win every night.” His intensity on offense and defense has energized Milwaukee’s defense and helped establish a tougher, more aggressive playing style.
Oct 26, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) dunks against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
If Antetokounmpo gets the green light to suit up, the Bucks will head into Thursday’s matchup aiming to strengthen its case as one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams and continue its climb back to the upper tier of the standings.