The Milwaukee Bucks look to remain afloat without their star player vs the Portland Trail Blazers
The Milwaukee Bucks had a lot of chatter around them in the offseason, for moves that happened and didn't happen. Coming off a third-straight first-round exit, rumors began to circulate that perhaps Giannis Antetokounmpo could leave the Bucks after 12 years with the franchise. However, they opted for some drastic moves to improve the roster around him as fast as possible.
The major move in question was the waiving and stretching of All-NBA guard Damian Lillard's contract, making way for him to head home to the Portland Trail Blazers. On Monday night, they'll see the Trail Blazers for the first-time this season, but neither of the former star duo will be suited up.
Bucks Injury Report
After leaving the first half against the Cleveland Cavaliers on November 17th with a groin injury, All-NBA forward Giannis Antetokounmpo remains OUT for Milwaukee on Monday night. The engine that drives this Bucks team, they hold just a 1-4 record in games that Giannis hasn't finished healthy.
Two familiar faces remain alongside him on the injury report, with Kevin Porter Jr. (knee) and Taurean Prince (neck) still OUT. Porter Jr. could return as early as next month, according to reports, but Prince is expected to be sidelined for an extended period of time.
With that, the Bucks will have to continue to make do with who they have on the court, as Kyle Kuzma, Myles Turner, and Bobby Portis will be expected to increase their production with Giannis sidelined.
Luckily, it's been a breakout season for guard Ryan Rollins, who is averaging 18.6 points per game, trailing just Giannis on the team in scoring.
Game Preview
While the Trail Blazers' injury report has yet to be submitted, Damian Lillard will remain sidelined due to the Achilles injury he suffered in the playoffs last season with the Bucks. He won't get the chance to face his former team yet, but it will surely be a game to circle once the star guard is healthy and back on the court.
As for Monday's contest, it'll be another situation where the Bucks won't have the upper hand. They'll have the benefit of playing at home, but they'll be tasked with slowing down Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija, who continues to build off his stellar run from last season.
Despite just a 1-4 record in their last five games, Avdija is averaging 23.4 points, 7.4 assists, and 6.6 rebounds per game. The Bucks certainly have a chance, and it will start with them slowing him down.
Tip-off at the Fiserv Forum is set for 8:00 p.m., as the Bucks will look to get back to .500.