Bucks Struggling Without Giannis, But His Return Could Shift the Tide
The Milwaukee Bucks opened the 2025-26 season looking like a team ready to contend. But that early momentum hit a wall when Giannis Antetokounmpo was sidelined with an adductor injury - and the impact has been impossible to ignore. Now sitting at 9-13 after a 129-126 loss to the Washington Wizards, Milwaukee is searching for answers, and more than anything, they’re hoping their two-time MVP can get back on the floor - and stay there.
In that recent loss to Washington, Giannis gave it everything he had in 32 minutes of action, putting up 26 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. It was a solid night, but not enough to carry a Bucks squad that’s been inconsistent without him. Kevin Porter Jr. led the team in scoring with 30, but beyond that, the supporting cast struggled to make a meaningful impact.
And that’s been the story far too often this season: Giannis doing the heavy lifting, while the rest of the roster struggles to keep pace.
According to the Bucks’ latest injury report, there’s a glimmer of hope. Giannis is listed as probable for tonight’s matchup against the Detroit Pistons, still managing that left adductor strain.
It’s not a guarantee, but it’s a good sign. Milwaukee needs his presence - not just for the numbers he puts up, but for the confidence and energy he brings to the floor.
Here’s how the Bucks’ injury report looks heading into the Pistons game:
Out:
- Alex Antetokounmpo (Two-Way)
- Larry Nance Jr. (Neck surgery)
- Taurean Prince (Two-Way)
- 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 considering roster adjustments to lighten Giannis’ workload - and frankly, they need to. He’s been playing at an MVP level, but the supporting cast hasn’t consistently risen to the occasion. That imbalance has exposed Milwaukee’s depth issues and forced Giannis into a nightly uphill battle just to keep his team competitive.
Off the court, things have gotten a little more complicated. Giannis recently scrubbed most Bucks-related content from his social media accounts.
The only post that remains? A tribute to Kobe Bryant - a subtle move that’s ignited speculation about a potential future in Los Angeles.
While nothing concrete has emerged, the timing - paired with the Bucks’ struggles - has raised eyebrows around the league.
To be clear, Giannis has previously shut down trade talk and expressed his commitment to Milwaukee. But the current situation feels different.
The Bucks are underperforming, and their franchise cornerstone is clearly frustrated. Whether that frustration turns into something more remains to be seen, but it’s a storyline worth watching.
For now, the Bucks need to focus on the task at hand: getting healthy, finding rhythm, and giving Giannis a reason to believe this team can still contend. Because if they can’t, the questions surrounding his future are only going to get louder.