The Milwaukee Bucks, who are seeded third in the Eastern Conference, are facing the possibility of starting the playoffs without their star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. Antetokounmpo has been dealing with a calf strain that he sustained during the final games of the regular season, and the injury has not completely healed to the point where he can play. However, there is hope that he may return at some point during the first round of the playoffs.
The injury occurred during a game against the Boston Celtics on April 9, when Antetokounmpo had an awkward landing on his leg. He was unable to continue playing and limped to the locker room, causing concern among fans. The Bucks immediately ruled him out for the rest of the regular season games as he underwent treatment and rehabilitation.
Despite avoiding a more serious injury, the Bucks were unable to secure the No. 2 seed in the conference as they hoped. They needed to win their final three games to hold onto that position, but losses to the Orlando Magic and Oklahoma City Thunder dropped them to the third seed. Now, they are preparing to face the Indiana Pacers in the first round of the playoffs without Antetokounmpo on the court.
While the absence of their star player is a blow to the team, the Bucks are focused on moving forward in the playoffs and staying competitive. Antetokounmpo has been undergoing intensive treatment on his calf and there is a possibility that he may return later in the series against the Pacers. The team is determined to make the most of their playoff run, starting with Game 1 on Saturday against Indiana.