Bucks’ Giannis Sidelined with Knee Injury Against Warriors After Minion Costume
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will not participate in Thursday’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors due to knee soreness, as confirmed by the team. This announcement follows his appearance in a Minion costume for Halloween festivities earlier that day.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Injury History
The 30-year-old has faced a series of injuries throughout the 2024-25 NBA season, resulting in the missed opportunity to play in 15 games. Notably, he dealt with left shoulder tendinopathy, as well as knee and calf injuries in February.
Outstanding Performance Before the Injury
When healthy, Antetokounmpo performed at an elite level. He averaged:
- 30.4 points per game
- 11.9 rebounds per game
- 6.5 assists per game
- 1.2 blocks per game
His field goal percentage stood at an impressive 60.1%, although his three-point shooting was lower at 22.2%.
Impact on the Team
Despite his strong stats, Antetokounmpo’s performance ranked him third in the MVP race, overshadowed by competitors Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić. Nonetheless, he led Milwaukee to a ninth consecutive playoff appearance.
Handling injuries has tested the team’s resilience, particularly with both Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard—who is dealing with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf—missing critical games. Antetokounmpo’s health is vital for the Bucks as they aim to maximize their championship aspirations.
Promising Start to the Season
At the beginning of the 2025-26 season, the Bucks kicked off with a solid 3-1 record. Antetokounmpo had an impressive start, averaging:
- 36.3 points per game
- 14.0 rebounds per game
- 7.0 assists per game
His shooting statistics indicated a highly efficient performance, with 69.5% from the field and 57.1% beyond the arc.
Next Steps for the Bucks
With Antetokounmpo sidelined, other players, including Bobby Portis and Taurean Prince, are expected to shoulder more responsibilities. The team must adapt quickly to maintain their competitive edge while aiming for a successful season ahead.
