The Milwaukee Bucks opened the 2025-26 season with promise, but things have taken a sharp turn since Giannis Antetokounmpo was sidelined with a left adductor strain. Now sitting at 9-13 after a narrow 129-126 loss to the Washington Wizards, the Bucks are feeling the weight of their superstar’s absence - and it’s showing on both ends of the floor.
In that loss to Washington, Giannis played 32 minutes and still managed to put up 26 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists - a solid night by most standards, but not quite enough to carry a team that’s struggling to find its rhythm. Kevin Porter Jr. led the way with 30 points, showing flashes of the scoring punch the Bucks desperately need. But outside of those two, the supporting cast went quiet, and that silence is becoming a pattern.
The Bucks’ latest injury report offers a glimmer of hope: Giannis is listed as probable for tonight’s matchup against the Detroit Pistons. That’s not a guarantee, but it’s a sign that his return could be imminent. With the team in desperate need of a spark, even a limited version of Antetokounmpo could be a game-changer.
Here’s where the roster stands heading into the game:
Out:
- Alex Antetokounmpo (Two-Way)
- Larry Nance Jr. (Two-Way)
- Taurean Prince (Neck Surgery)
- Mark Sears (Two-Way)
Questionable:
- Gary Harris (Right Achilles Soreness)
- Kevin Porter Jr. (Lower Back Muscle Spasm)
Probable:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Left Adductor Strain - Injury Management)
The Bucks are reportedly exploring ways to ease Giannis’ workload - a smart move considering how much of the offensive and defensive burden he’s been carrying. But that’s easier said than done when the roster around him is underperforming. Milwaukee needs more than just a healthy Giannis - they need cohesion, consistency, and contributions from the full rotation.
And then there’s the off-court noise.
Giannis recently scrubbed most Bucks-related content from his social media accounts, leaving just a few posts behind - including one featuring the late Kobe Bryant. That alone was enough to ignite speculation, especially with teams like the Lakers always lurking in the shadows when a superstar’s loyalty comes into question.
Now, to be clear, Giannis hasn’t said anything publicly about leaving. He’s dismissed trade rumors in the past and has remained committed to Milwaukee through thick and thin. But the Bucks’ current skid, combined with a roster that hasn’t lived up to expectations, adds a layer of uncertainty that’s hard to ignore.
He’s still playing at an MVP level. The numbers, the effort, the leadership - it’s all there.
But one man can only do so much, and if the Bucks don’t find a way to right the ship soon, this season could slip away faster than anyone expected. For now, all eyes are on tonight’s game against Detroit - and whether No. 34 will suit up to lead the charge.