Home / Sports / Giannis Out: Bucks Face Pelicans Short-Handed
Giannis Out: Bucks Face Pelicans Short-Handed
21 Feb
Summary
- Giannis Antetokounmpo remains out with a right calf strain.
- Milwaukee has a 3-11 record without Antetokounmpo this season.
- New Orleans has fewer injury concerns heading into the matchup.
The Milwaukee Bucks will play the New Orleans Pelicans on February 20, 2026, without their leading player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. He continues to be sidelined with a right calf strain that has kept him out since January. The team's performance has suffered significantly in his absence, evidenced by a 3-11 record in games played without him this season.
Antetokounmpo's injury initially occurred in December and re-aggravated in late January, resulting in a soleus strain. He was projected to miss four to six weeks and has not yet returned to full practice. This marks the second extended period he has missed due to a calf issue this season.
With Antetokounmpo out, the Bucks are also missing Taurean Prince and Myles Turner, who also has a calf injury. This forces other players like Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. to assume larger roles, focusing on scoring and rebounding. Kevin Porter Jr. and Jericho Sims are expected to receive increased minutes.
In contrast, the New Orleans Pelicans have fewer injury concerns. While Trey Murphy III is questionable, Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray are expected to play, supported by players like Jordan Poole and Yves Missi. This availability gives New Orleans a considerable advantage in the upcoming matchup.
