As it’s time for the teams to gear up for the actual faceoff, the Bucks are once again falling behind due to their inconsistencies. Three consecutive losses have already raised questions about whether they’re the real deal for the title. Frankly, it’s probably too soon to make that call. They still have plenty of opportunities to redeem themselves, and it all starts tonight at the Fiserv Forum when the Lakers come to town. With injuries taking a toll, the Lakers aren’t as strong as they once seemed. But of course, the Eastern side has its challenges– one of which is the latest updates on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.

Insider Eric Nehm has shared a glimpse of the franchise’s injury report, and guess who’s back on it? Giannis Antetokounmpo. The 2x MVP has been listed as probable again like last time, as the strain in his left calf continues to cause him discomfort. This could very well mean Giannis will be sidelined for Thursday’s matchup.

Giannis has been dealing with the foot issue since last season, which kept him out of the playoffs. Even last month, just before the All-Star weekend, he missed six straight games and withdrew from the All-Star game as well. However, Giannis has been suiting up ever since. And this could be another game where he ultimately takes the court, but the decision is still uncertain. His condition will be closely monitored before a final call is made on the lineup.

Giannis Antetokounmpo isn’t the only reason for the Bucks’ miseries. His on-court partner, Damian Lillard, has also joined him on the probable list. Lillard has been dealing with a sore right groin with which he played in the last game against the Pacers. In the 52 appearances, Giannis has contributed 30.7 points while stacking up his stat sheet with 12.1 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game, whereas Lillard in his 54 added 25.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 7.1 assists. So, their absence would be a massive blow for the Bucks.

Besides Giannis and Lillard, the Bucks’ injury list also includes Chris Livingston, who is dealing with a non-COVID illness. So, his status for tonight is questionable. There’s also uncertainty around Tyler Smith, as the 20-year-old is suffering from back spasms. The decisions will be made at the last minute. However, what’s confirmed is that Bobby Portis will not be on the roster, as he is still serving his 25-game suspension. It’s not just the Bucks with major concerns, the Lakers are dealing with their own as well.

With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s status uncertain, Lakers face their own struggles

We all know that the Purple and Gold have their main man, LeBron James, out due to a groin injury. That has disrupted the phenomenal rhythm they had built after Luka Doncic’s arrival. Their center looked much more polished with Jaxson Hayes, but his right knee contusion has ruled him out, leaving the middle much thinner. And looks like that issue won’t be solved anytime soon.

Rui Hachimura, who could’ve been a help here, is still far from rejoining the squad as he hasn’t fully recovered from his left patella tendinopathy. If that wasn’t worrying enough, Doncic has also been added to the injury report. The Slovenian is dealing with soreness in his right ankle, so his availability for tonight is in question. Meanwhile, Maxi Kleber is still not ready to return to the hardwood after his right foot surgery.

Without Doncic, the Lakers would have a weakened roster. That’s when Giannis’ presence could make all the difference, and if Lillard is also in the lineup, it would make the visitors’ chances of victory even slimmer. But you never know when the tables might turn. So, tune in for a thrilling game as the East welcomes the West tonight at 7:30 PM ET.