MILWAUKEE — The Milwaukee Bucks welcomed back All-Star Damian Lillard for their matchup against the Miami Heat on Sunday evening, although he was still subject to a minutes limitation due to injury concerns. Fellow All-Star Giannis Antetokounmpo also faced the same restrictions in the game.
Lillard had been sidelined for the previous game, a victory over the Washington Wizards, because of a strain in his right hamstring. Meanwhile, Antetokounmpo returned after missing five games prior to the All-Star break due to a strain in his left calf. In his limited 19 minutes of play against Washington, he encountered both cautionary measures and issues related to foul trouble. Coach Doc Rivers noted that getting the two-time MVP to accept limited playing time has been a bit challenging.
“He’s not very patient, and it certainly disrupts his rhythm,” Rivers commented. “However, the overall well-being of the team is what’s most important.”
Taurean Prince made his return to the starting lineup after missing two games due to a sprained left ankle. Gary Trent Jr. was also available but is managing a contusion to his left knee. Unfortunately, Pat Connaughton remains out indefinitely with an injury to his left calf.
“He’s dealt with calf issues throughout his career,” explained Rivers. “These types of injuries are tough and they can be quite troublesome.”
Adding to the Bucks’ injury woes is the fact that Bobby Portis Jr. is serving a 25-game suspension for testing positive for Tramadol, which is against the league’s anti-drug policy.
Brook Lopez, the longest-tenured player on the team and now in his 17th NBA season, has been remarkably consistent, missing only one of 56 games this season.
“He’s like a clock and is very disciplined about his routines,” Rivers remarked about Lopez. “He approaches this role with utmost seriousness and is a true example of consistency.”
Rivers also acknowledged the need to exercise caution with Lopez, particularly with Portis suspended for the foreseeable future.
“I have my concerns, especially since he’s 37 years old,” Rivers said. “In a past stretch when Bobby was out, he had to log heavy minutes which took a toll on him. We have to be smarter this time around.”
