The Bucks could be close to getting their star back as Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to play against the Bulls on Saturday, according to Eric Nehm of The Athletic.
He still needs to pass final pregame tests, but his return appears imminent after missing eight games due to a right calf strain.
Antetokounmpo has steadily ramped up his activities, including participating in a full-contact three-on-three scrimmage earlier this week.
Milwaukee has struggled without him, going 2-6 since his injury and scoring 105 points or fewer in five of those losses. The Bucks are now 12-19 and 11th in the Eastern Conference.
When Antetokounmpo has played, however, the team is 10-7, and his production has remained elite: 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game while shooting a career-best 63.9 percent from the field.
He also missed time earlier this season due to a left adductor strain.
During his recovery, Antetokounmpo addressed speculation about his future, emphasizing his commitment to the franchise that drafted him in 2013.
“I’m still locked in, locked in with my teammates. Most importantly, the most important thing is that I get healthy again,” he said on Dec. 18.
“And then, locked in with my teammates and how can I help them from the sidelines or encourage them to be able to play and play freely? … As a leader, but especially as a winner, you just have to be there for them first.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo was scheduled to play on Saturday https://t.co/oncYIvTJes pic.twitter.com/Sa5H81ulgr
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) December 27, 2025
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