Why Giannis Antetokounmpo was a ‘late scratch’ against the Warriors
Superstar striker Giannis Antetokounmpo will not be available for Milwaukee Bucks matchup against the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 PM ET.
Antetokounmpo is playing at an elite level for the Bucks, and is already putting himself in early MVP discussions. However, the two-time MVP winner will not be present for the team’s showdown against Golden State.
ESPN reporter Anthony Slater he delivered the newssaying that Antetokounmpo has soreness in his left knee and will not be ready to go into the contest. Milwaukee found itself out of the rotation late.
Through Milwaukee’s first four games, Antetokounmpo averaged 36.3 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists and 1.3 blocks per game. He shot 69.5% from the field, including 57.1% from beyond the arc and 64.3% from the free throw line.
What’s next for the Bucks amid Giannis Antetokounmpo’s absence
It is significant news for the Bucks to be without Giannis Antetokounmpo for their game against the Warriors.
Antetokounmpo stands tall as the team’s best player, and his teammates benefit from his presence on the court. Without him, they will have to deal with the intense defense that Golden State will apply to them throughout the night.
Milwaukee has been a solid unit through the first four games. They are eighth in offensive scoring with 122.2 points per game, eighth in offensive rating (119.7), 13th in defense with 116.2 points allowed and 13th in defensive rating (113.9).
Antetokounmpo has been at the heart of Milwaukee’s solid start, but others have stepped up in the supporting cast. Ryan Rollins, Gary Trent Jr., AJ Green and Cole Anthony are notable examples of players who have moved past Antetokounmpo. Their performances against Golden State without the assistance of their star teammate are worth watching.
After the matchup against the Warriors, the Bucks will prepare for their next contest. They will stay at home and host the Sacramento Kings on November 1st at 5pm ET.
2025-10-30 23:37:00
