The surging Milwaukee Bucks may be short-handed when they play the Chicago Bulls on Monday, December 23rd. The Bucks are hoping that superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo will suit up after missing their previous game against the Washington Wizards with a back injury that has continued to cause problems this season.
After playing extended minutes during the NBA Cup playoffs, including their championship-winning game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Giannis has had an increased workload. In fact, he probably has had to play more minutes than he may otherwise would have thus far.
Nevertheless, his play this season has been the main reason why the Bucks were able to rebound from their ugly 2-8 start. Including the NBA Cup playoff games, they have won 12 of the last 15 games, including winning an NBA Cup championship over the Thunder.
With Giannis on pace to potentially win his third MVP of his career, every game missed will take on increased importance. After all, he will need to appear in at least 65 games to meet the league's minimum games played requirement to be considered for the award.
While the Bucks could potentially still win without Giannis on Monday, there is a chance that he could suit up and play. That being said, will Giannis Antetokounmpo play against the Chicago Bulls?
Milwaukee Bucks full injury report against the Chicago Bulls.
Joining Giannis on the Bucks' injury report is fellow star Damian Lillard as well as Khris Middleton. Lillard is doubtful with a calf injury while Middleton is probable with an ankle injury.
Giannis, himself, is questionable due to a nagging back injury. If both he and Lillard miss Monday's game against the Bulls, then they could be in trouble. Next, we will see who will be out for the Bulls.
Update: Both Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard have been ruled out for Monday's game against the Bulls.
Chicago Bulls full injury report against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Bulls have fewer injuries to deal with than the Bucks, with only Josh Giddey and Torrey Craig appearing on the injury report. Both players are listed as questionable, with Giddey dealing with an ankle injury while Craig has an Achilles injury.
With the Bulls being better than expected, having Giannis listed as questionable and Lillard as doubtful is a big potential blow for the Bucks. Especially with them being on the road.
Ultimately, Giannis is questionable with a back injury for Milwaukee's game against the Bulls. If he can't play, then the Bucks will have a much harder time beating a pesky Bulls team.