The Milwaukee Bucks are now facing the difficult challenge of moving forward in their Eastern Conference finals with their two-time MVP absent.
Giannis Antetokounmpo suffered a hyperextension in his left knee. He was forced to leave the Bucks’ Eastern Conference finals match against the Atlanta Hawks Tuesday night.
P.J. Bucks says, “It’s bad.” Tucker stated. Tucker said, “It’s not fair to lose anyone on your team. But losing your best player is a terrible thing.”
The Hawks won 110-88 to end the best-of-7 series at 2-2. It is unknown what Antetokounmpo will be doing in Game 5 at Milwaukee on Thursday night.
Antetokounmpo, who was trying to defend a jam by Hawks centre Clint Capela, had 7:14 left in the third quarter. His left knee buckled. He was clearly in pain and grimacing, clutching his knee.
Mike Budenholzer, Bucks coach, said that the team would find out more about Antetokounmpo on Wednesday.
Budenholzer stated, “We’ll accept everything as it is.” We’ll evaluate it. “We have a great team and a great roster. … They will prepare. They will be prepared.
Antetokounmpo was unable to move for several minutes, then slowly walked towards the locker room. As he left the court, he was accompanied by Thanasis Antetokounmpo and a staff member.
The Bucks were astonished by the sight and sound.
Khris Middleton stated, “I heard him shout.”
Jrue Holiday added: “It seemed pretty bad just by the way he was grasping his leg.
Giannis Antetokounmpo briefly returned to the bench before heading back to the locker room. After the Hawks extended their lead to 20, Giannis Antetokounmpo was again on the bench. The Bucks soon announced that Antetokounmpo would not be returning.
When Budenholzer was asked about Antetokounmpo’s comments to his teammates after he briefly returned from the bench, Budenholzer replied “I don’t want to speak on his behalf.” He’s been known to be a bit withdrawn from his teammates, so I know it’s difficult for him to stay off the court. I believe he is eager to play, and if not, let him know that he is there for his teammates.”
Antetokounmpo scored eight of his 14 points after a slow start. After the Capela jam, the Hawks led 52-52 when Bucks’ star left.
Antetokounmpo’s departure seemed to halt the momentum of the Bucks’ comeback.
Holiday stated that the injury was not a distraction.
“No. Holiday stated, “No. “I pray it’s not serious.”
Budenholzer stated that Antetokounmpo was “a large part of our souls and our fiber.” The concern and human element are real, I’m sure. They are trying to find a way for him to be present when he isn’t on the court.
The Hawks were without Trae Young, their leading scorer. He was left out because of a bone bruise in the right leg.
Tucker stated, “There are no excuses.” “Everybody is hurt. Everyone is suffering from injuries. “You have to persevere.”
Tucker stated that the Hawks’ performance without Young should be an example to the Bucks, particularly if Antetokounmpo is unable to play in Game 5.
Tucker stated, “Every play lay it on the line. Go out there and take it because that’s what Atlanta did tonight.” They went out and took it.
