The Milwaukee Bucks have continued to compete without Giannis Antetokounmpo as he works his way back from a right calf strain.
There is reason for cautious optimism, as he has been going through pregame workouts and increasing his activity level. Still, he likely needs to clear several recovery checkpoints before the medical staff gives him full clearance to return to game action.
Doc Rivers, on what Giannis Antetokounmpo was able to do on the floor yesterday in Milwaukee: "We were in the gym and did some 3-on-3 stuff. 4-on-4 and 3-on-3, I think, live. That was good."
Next box to check for Antetokounmpo will be live 5-on-5. https://t.co/vDps1y5PyX
— Eric Nehm (@eric_nehm) February 22, 2026
“We were in the gym and did some 3-on-3 stuff. 4-on-4 and 3-on-3, I think, live. That was good,” Bucks head coach Doc Rivers commented on Giannis’ status via The Athletic’s Eric Nehm.
Antetokounmpo has battled calf strains in recent seasons, so he knows the steps required to return to full action. He is clearly itching to get back on the court, motivated to lift his teammates and drive a late-season push for the playoffs.
The Bucks without Giannis Antetokounmpo
Feb 24, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Kevin Porter (7) reacts with guard AJ Green (20) and guard Ryan Rollins (13) after scoring a basket late in the fourth quarter against the Miami Heat at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Even without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have managed to pick up wins thanks to contributions from multiple players. Key contributors include Cam Thomas, who joined the team before the All-Star break, and young talent Ousmane Dieng, acquired from the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Bucks recently secured a win over the Miami Heat, with Kevin Porter Jr. leading the charge. He finished the game with 32 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists, driving the team to victory.
Feb 22, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) warms up before game against the Toronto Raptors at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
The Bucks face a steep climb to move up the standings and secure a Play-In spot, but a healthy Antetokounmpo could give them a real shot. Their success will also depend on the teams above them dropping games, which could prove to be a difficult challenge.
For now, the Bucks can only concentrate on the factors they can control and hope that the Greek Freak returns to the lineup as soon as possible.