Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to play on Saturday

Dec 27, 2025 3:45 PM

The Bucks could be close to getting their star back, as Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to play Saturday against the Bulls, according to Eric Nehm of The Athletic.

He still needs to pass final pregame testing, but his return appears imminent after missing eight games with a right calf strain.

Antetokounmpo has steadily ramped up his activity, including taking part 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 sit 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 previously missed time earlier this season with 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 on my teammates. Most importantly, locked in on me getting back healthy,” he said on Dec. 18.

“And then, locked in on my teammates and how can I help them from the sideline or encourage them to be able to play and play free? … As a leader, but most importantly as a winner, you just gotta be there for them first.”