The Milwaukee Bucks will be without their superstar forward Giannis Antetokounmpo when they host the New Orleans Pelicans at Fiserv Forum on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. The team has officially ruled him out due to a right calf strain that has been troubling him for several weeks.
Injury Details and Recovery Timeline
The injury originally occurred during the Bucks' January 23 game against the Denver Nuggets, forcing Antetokounmpo to exit early. Since then, he has been sidelined and undergoing rehabilitation. While recent practices have shown him participating in light running and agility drills, the medical staff and head coach Doc Rivers have decided against rushing his return.
Projected Return Window
After the initial injury, Antetokounmpo himself projected a recovery period of four to six weeks. This timeline suggests a potential return sometime in mid- to late February, provided there are no setbacks in his rehabilitation process. The team has not set an official return date, maintaining a day-to-day evaluation approach.
Injury specifics include:
- Type: Right calf strain described as severe
- Current status: Officially listed as "out" for the Pelicans game
- Recent activity: Light workouts, running, and agility exercises
- Previous issues: This marks another episode of calf problems that have affected his availability over the past two seasons
Impact on Bucks Performance
Antetokounmpo's absence creates a significant void in the Bucks' lineup. This season, he has been averaging approximately 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game while shooting an impressive 64.5 percent from the field. His production has been central to Milwaukee's offensive strategy and overall success.
Without their primary star, the Bucks have had to redistribute responsibilities among other key players. Damian Lillard and Brook Lopez have taken on larger roles, but the team has struggled to maintain consistency, particularly in defensive situations and during critical late-game moments.
Matchup Implications
The Pelicans, under head coach Willie Green, have shown some defensive improvements this season but still rank near the bottom of the league in points allowed. This matchup would have presented favorable conditions for Antetokounmpo to exploit, making his absence particularly notable for this specific game.
Broader Context and Future Considerations
The timing of this injury adds an extra layer of complexity as the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5. While no confirmed trade discussions have emerged, Antetokounmpo's injury history and current status create uncertainty about the Bucks' short-term strategy versus long-term protection of their 31-year-old franchise player.
Each game missed emphasizes Antetokounmpo's importance to the team's success, while his gradual return to on-court activities indicates positive progress in his recovery. The Bucks' medical team continues to prioritize caution, understanding the risks associated with aggravating calf injuries that could lead to more extended absences.
The organization faces the delicate balance of competing effectively in the current season while ensuring their star player's health for future campaigns. As Antetokounmpo continues his rehabilitation, both his recovery timeline and the team's strategic decisions will remain crucial factors influencing Milwaukee's trajectory through the remainder of the season.
