Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo Ruled out for Kings Game with Knee Injury

AP Photo/Jon Durr

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo will not play Saturday night against the Sacramento Kings due to right knee soreness, according to Eric Nehm of The Athletic.

It has already been an unlucky year for injuries, with Antetokounmpo notably missing almost two weeks in the COVID-19 health and safety protocols in December. The forward has also been limited by quad, calf, ankle and knee issues since the start of 2021-22, some of which cost him games while others just slowed him down on the court.

This still hasn’t stopped Giannis from dominating when healthy.

Through 39 games, the superstar is averaging 28.6 points, 11.3 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game.

It’s a continuation of a stretch that features two MVP awards, a Defensive Player of the Year award and an NBA title in the past three seasons.

The Bucks obviously take a significant step back when Antetokounmpo is unavailable, but there is enough depth to make them a tough team to beat with Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday leading the way.

In addition to Giannis, the Bucks will be without center Brook Lopez and guard Grayson Allen on Saturday.

That means Middleton and Holiday will carry the load for the reigning NBA champs with Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, Jordan Nwora and George Hill also playing key roles.