English
Español
ESPN Reporter Second-Guesses Giannis Antetokounmpo's Reported Return Vs. Celtics originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Giannis Antetokounmpo will reportedly return in Monday's game against the Boston Celtics. An ESPN reporter wondered whether the Milwaukee Bucks should play their superstar at all this season.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Antetokounmpo will play Monday for the first time since injuring his calf on Jan. 23. The Bucks have since gone 8-7 without the two-time MVP, but they're still 11th in the Eastern Conference standings at 26-33.
Discussing Antetokounmpo's anticipated return on "NBA Today," Tim MacMahon advised the Bucks to keep the 10-time All-Star sidelined. He feels they're better off missing the playoffs and entering the lottery than pursuing a play-in bid.
"There's a tanking epidemic because that's the smartest strategy," MacMahon argued. "This is not in the Bucks' best long-term interest. We're not going to pretend the Bucks have a chance in hell of doing anything in the Eastern Conference this year."
Even if the Bucks make the postseason, MacMahon doesn't think they'd raise any competition.
"The Bucks do not have any chance of doing anything," MacMahon said. "They're not going to win a single playoff game. I will say that right now."
Antetokounmpo has averaged 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game this season, but the Bucks are 15-15 when he plays. They're three games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the East's final play-in spot.
The Celtics and Bucks tip off Monday at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBA TV.
More NBA: Chandler Parsons Voices Concern Over Jayson Tatum's Celtics Return