Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports

The Milwaukee Bucks kick off their postseason on Sunday in Game 1 of their opening-round series against the Indiana Pacers. Unfortunately, it now appears that Giannis Antetokounmpo will not be available for that crucial matchup.

Not only that, but it is now being reported that the former back-to-back MVP could need more time to heal from what has become a truly concerning calf injury.

Milwaukee Bucks News: Giannis Antetokounmpo to Miss Start of Playoff Series Vs. Pacers

It was ESPN’s NBA guru Adrian Wojnarowski who broke the news on Tuesday morning:

“The Milwaukee Bucks are preparing to be without two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo for the start of their opening round Eastern Conference playoff series against the Indiana Pacers, but are hopeful treatment on his left calf strain will allow him to return sometime later in the series, sources told ESPN on Tuesday,” Woj reported.

Woj also reported that Antetokounmpo is receiving “around-the-clock treatment” on his calf injury as the Bucks attempt to do everything they can to get their superstar ready as soon as humanly possible.

This is an undeniably troubling development for the Bucks. The fact that they will be without Giannis for perhaps the first half of the Pacers series is one thing. What also needs to be considered here is how healthy he’s going to be if and when he returns to action.

This could have a significant impact on Milwaukee’s postseason run, assuming that they are able to get through the Pacers in the first round. At this point, that has become a very big IF.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Broncos 'very unlikely' to bring back former NFL interceptions leader
Greg Olsen offers broadcasting advice to Tom Brady
Yankees' Juan Soto reacts to Hal Steinbrenner contract talk
Scottie Scheffler arrested, still makes PGA Championship tee time
Timberwolves chew up Nuggets to force Game 7
Rangers secure spot in conference finals after stunning third-period comeback over Hurricanes
Xander Schauffele makes history in first round of PGA Championship
Yankees' Hal Steinbrenner shares massive Juan Soto contract update
Steelers' Cameron Heyward addresses contract holdout
Knicks star ruled out for potential closeout game
Dodgers starter undergoes season-ending UCL surgery
Clemson’s Dabo Swinney gives smug response about not using transfer portal
Caitlin Clark's debut was most-watched WNBA game in more than 20 years
Watch: Chris Kreider's natural third-period hat trick shatters Hurricanes' comeback hopes
Veteran NFL safety will either play for this team or retire in 2024
Former Red Wings head coach linked to open NHL job
How Patriots' Drake Maye has already impressed Jacoby Brissett
LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry among Forbes' highest-paid athletes for 2024
Steve Cohen addresses if Mets could again be trade-deadline sellers
Tiger Woods ruins strong first round with sloppy finish at PGA Championship

Want more Bucks news?

Join the hundreds of thousands of fans who start their day with Yardbarker's Morning Bark, the best newsletter in sports.