Bucks need to brace for extended absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo

Milwaukee Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo is slowly recovering from a left calf strain that has sidelined him for the first two games of the playoff series against the Indiana Pacers. Despite his progress, the Bucks might need to prepare for the possibility of continuing their postseason journey without their key player, as his return remains uncertain. Giannis' absence was strongly felt during Game 2, where the Pacers secured a decisive 125-108 victory in Milwaukee, evening the series at 1-1 as it moves to Indiana.

The Bucks have struggled against the Pacers this season, losing four of their five regular-season matchups. The team's performance without Antetokounmpo has sparked concerns among fans and analysts alike, with NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley from TNT's "Inside the NBA" expressing doubts about the Bucks' chances. They argued on Tuesday's show that Milwaukee stands little chance of winning the series if Antetokounmpo cannot return to the court.

As the series progresses, the Bucks face the challenge of adjusting their strategies and possibly reshaping their game plan to compensate for the absence of Giannis. His leadership and on-court dominance are integral to the team, and without him, Milwaukee must rally and find new ways to contend with a tough Pacers squad that has already shown they can capitalize on his absence.

Source Hoopswire : Report: Bucks Should Be Prepared For Giannis Antetokounmpo To Miss More Time
Source Bleacher Report : NBA Rumors: Giannis 'Progressing' in Calf Injury Recovery amid Bucks-Pacers Series