As the Bucks are one win away from a berth in the 2021 NBA Finals, superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has now been declared out for Game 6.
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The Milwaukee superstar hyperextended his knee during the 3rd quarter of Game Four, which led to him missing the remainder of the game.
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However, after undergoing an MRI, it was later revealed that the 2x NBA MVP had no structural damage and his ligaments were intact.
The Bucks would go on to lose Game Four against the Atlanta Hawks. Khris Middleton was heavily criticized for his performance in Game Four, as he had a mere 16-points on a 35.3% shooting from the field. This was surprising as he had a career playoff-high the previous game that helped the Bucks win Game three.
Giannis was ruled out for the following Game Five that took place at the Bucks’ home arena.
Despite the above fact, the Milwaukee Bucks would dominate the Hawks in Game six with exceptional performances by Brook Lopez, Jrue Holiday, and Kris Middleton. The Bucks had the lead during all the minutes of the game.
Bobby Portis, who filled in for Giannis, had a career-high playoff game as he scored 22-points on a 45.0% shooting from the field. He’ll have to do the job for another game, given that the Greek Freak is now ruled out.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo in his 2021 NBA Playoffs run
The former DPOY was one of the most scrutinized players entering the post-season this year. There is no denying that Giannis is a generational talent and is one of the most dominant forces we have seen in the paint since Shaquille O’ Neal.
However, the 5x NBA All-Star has been unable to replicate his regular-season success in the Playoffs. Despite being the top seed in the east for the past few years, the Bucks have been unable to make a deep playoff run.
Nevertheless, the 2021 NBA Playoffs saw a new version of the Milwaukee superstar, who silenced his critics by stepping up in the playoffs. The Bucks swept the Miami Heat in the first round, followed by defeating the Kevin Durant-led Brooklyn Nets in the semi-finals.
Giannis has averaged 28.2 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists in the 15 games he has played so far in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. The Greek Freak had been an efficient 55.1% from the field.
Though Giannis continues to struggle from the free-throw line, especially with the crowds in the arena repeatedly chanting the 10 seconds countdown till he makes the free throw. The Bucks superstar has re-introduced himself in the current playoffs with his note-worthy performances.
Unfortunately, Giannis couldn’t continue his good run in the playoffs due to an injury sustained in Game Four of the ECF. The supporting cast of the Bucks has, however, stepped up in this moment of crisis as the team is one win away from a berth in the NBA Finals since 1974.
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