Giannis Antetokounmpo, the standout player for the Milwaukee Bucks, was forced to miss his first game of the season on Wednesday night due to a strained right calf. The Bucks played the Toronto Raptors.

Injury issues

Giannis has struggled with injuries during the last four seasons. Due mostly to knee issues, he missed 19 games in the previous campaign. Due to a back injury, he was also sidelined for two pivotal games in their opening round loss to the Miami Heat. 

The “Greek Freak” suffered another knee injury prior to the season, which prevented him from representing Greece in the 2023 FIBA World Cup in Manila, Philippines.

Source of stability

Giannis has been his usual brilliant self despite the Bucks’ rough start to the season. He averages 29.5 points on 58 percent shooting, 9.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.

The team’s other superstar, Damian Lillard, was expected to carry more of the offensive load while Giannis was out. In the decisive 128-112 victory in Toronto, Dame excelled, scoring 37 points and dishing out 13 assists.