The Milwaukee Bucks are trying to keep focus on the court amid uncertainty about their superstar’s health and future. Without two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee will look for its sixth win in seven games on Friday when they return from the All-Star break to take on the New Orleans Pelicans on the road.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been out since January 23 with a strained right calf, originally expected to keep him sidelined for four to six weeks. This Friday will mark the four-week point of his absence.
“I’m healthy today, I just got to check the boxes,” remarked the Bucks’ superstar forward.
“I gotta play 1-on-1, 3-on-3, 5-on-5. The moment I do that, that can be the next game.”
The Bucks on an upward trajectory
Feb 4, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (25) shoots against Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (13) during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
Milwaukee dropped its first three games without Antetokounmpo but has rebounded with mostly strong performances over the past six contests, highlighted by a 141-137 overtime win against New Orleans on February 4 at home.
Milwaukee distributed the offense in its last game before the All-Star break, as seven players scored in double digits during a 110-93 victory at the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 12.
Feb 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Ousmane Dieng (21) smiles after a play against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Ousmane Dieng recorded his first career double-double, tallying a season-high 19 points and 11 rebounds against his former team. AJ Green added 17 points, and Bobby Portis chipped in 15 points along with 12 rebounds for the Bucks.
The Milwaukee Bucks will visit the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday, February 20, with tipoff set for 7:00 pm CT at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fans can watch the game on television or follow along on the radio.