As the season enters the homestretch and teams scramble to secure their place in the postseason, being healthy is of paramount importance for every protagonist. The Milwaukee Bucks are one of the teams that are dealing with some health issues.
Luckily for the Bucks, Khris Middleton has already returned after missing 16 straight games due to a sprained ankle. However, two key players are hobbled with injuries. Giannis Antetokounmpo failed to suit up in the team’s last game due to hamstring soreness, while Malik Beasley is also dealing with back issues.
Backs issues hound Malik
Beasley was sidelined when the Bucks defeated the Philadelphia Sixers on Thursday, 114-105, but was available in the team’s 140-129 win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.
In a report by Eric Nehm of The Athletic, Beasley admitted that back spasms are affecting his movement. He, however, assured that the injury is manageable.
“I wasn’t really worried about my shot. I was more concerned about the defensive end. It’s hard to move side-to-side, especially guarding the fast guys like (De’Aaron) Fox. That’s actually what happened. He was dribbling, and then he probed for a little bit and then went fast and he was a little too quick for me. But nah, just gotta adjust, get my treatment and stay healthy,” said Beasley.
Nothing to worry about
Coach Doc Rivers also allayed fears surrounding Giannis’ situation. Rivers said Antetokounmpo missing the game against the Suns was more of a precautionary measure.
“Well, it’s not an injury, we’re just concerned a little bit,” Rivers said. “Plus, you look at the schedule, you have one, two, three, four, five days off, so we planted it in him, and he had to do it. Which we were happy that he decided to do it.”
The Bucks are currently second in the Eastern Conference with a 44-24 record. They are scheduled to meet the Boston Celtics on Wednesday looking to score a third-straight victory.
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