Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo will make his preseason debut against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday. Head coach Doc Rivers confirmed the news, indicating the team plans to gradually increase Antetokounmpo’s minutes in the upcoming preseason games.

Antetokounmpo did not play in the Bucks’ preseason opener against the Detroit Pistons, where Milwaukee cruised to a 120-87 victory.

Rivers noted that he was unaware Giannis typically skips the first preseason game but emphasized that the two-time MVP will be ramping up his minutes starting on Thursday.

The Bucks have high expectations for the 2024–25 season, and Antetokounmpo’s preseason participation is seen as a key component of their preparation.