Giannis Antetokounmpo Update: Bucks Star Listed As Doubtful For Game 5 Against Hawks

The Milwaukee Bucks may need to make big adjustments heading into game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals with star player Giannis Antetokounmpo listed as doubtful.

The 26-year-old went down in game 4 when he tried to go up to block an alley-hoop play for Clint Capella of the Hawks. Unfortunately, they got entangled and Antetokounmpo went down grimacing in pain. He had to be helped out of the court after the play and never returned.

The two-time NBA MVP underwent MRI for his hyperextended knee on Wednesday. There was no structural damage to his left knee after his ligaments were still found intact. However, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Bucks are listing Antetokounmpo as doubtful for game 5 against the Hawks.

With Antetokounmpo out, Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer will have to turn to his other wards to hold off a streaking Atlanta quintet. Trae Young also missed game 4 but that did not prevent the Hawks from soaring to a 110-88 win. Like Antetokounmpo, he too is questionable for game 5.

Budenholzer did not say much on the play that saw Antetokounmpo injured.

"It just looked like their legs got tangled up," Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said following Game 4. "They both landed awkwardly. That's what I saw live. I haven't seen anything else."

However, Budeholzer is aware that other players will need to step up for them to bounce back. Game 5 is set for Thursday in Milwaukee with tip-off starting at 8:30 p.m. EST. The series is tied at 2-2.

"We'll see what happens with Giannis," Khris Middleton said. "It would be great if he plays, but if not, we still have a capable team of going out there and winning."

Assuming the Bucks do find a way to stay afloat, the chances of seeing Antetokounmpo playing from is not looking bright. Even if Milwaukee does go on to advance, the five-time All-Star may end up watching from the sidelines.