When Giannis Antetokounmpo plays, the Bucks look like a different team altogether. This was proved during their disappointing 2024 post-season as the Greek Freak was sidelined with an injury. With the new season approaching, Milwaukee’s hopes rest once again on Giannis’ shoulders. However, their preseason performances showed they may not be fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

When the Bucks lost their first game against the Pistons by a huge margin, some believed Giannis’ presence could make a difference in the next game. However, it was the same against the Lakers even with the Greek Freak leading them. Following the two defeats, the franchise is preparing to welcome the Chicago Bulls to the Fiserv Forum, but the biggest question is whether Giannis will be present in the squad.

The preseason opener saw Giannis Antetokounmpo sitting out as part of his customary absence, according to the Bucks head coach. For the second game, viewed as a key matchup, Giannis returned to the lineup. But what about the upcoming game? With no reports of a new injury, it’s likely that he will suit up for Monday’s game. Currently, he is listed as day-to-day on the team’s injury report.

The Athletic’s Eric Nehm posted on X before the Lakers game, “Doc Rivers also joked that he was unaware that Giannis Antetokounmpo doesn’t normally play in the preseason opener. But added the plan for Antetokounmpo is to start playing in preseason games on Thursday vs. the Lakers and they’ll start ramping him up after that.”

Giannis’s time on the hardwood could be limited, but rest assured, he will make the most of it. However, Giannis would not want to jeopardize his health issues as he has big plans for the future.

Giannis Antetokounmpo reveals his major focus ahead of new season

After being sidelined in back-to-back post-season tournaments due to injury, Giannis Antetokounmpo has now decided to give priority to his health. To repeat their 2020-21 season performance, the 29-year-old has to be at his absolute best and he made his focus known on media day.

“Me personally, I’m trying to focus on myself as much as I can, focus on my team. Focus on my body, try to stay healthy. I’m just going to start with that: I really don’t pay attention or let my mind travel to different places that I cannot control,” Giannis said, clarifying his intentions. “I try to stay right here, and the most important thing for me is to stay healthy and to be available, so that’s all I think about right now.”

If Giannis and the Bucks’ medical team can take care of his injuries throughout the season, then the team could be a real threat to the Eastern sides. Even after the inclusion of Damian Lillard, the Bucks looked far off the title favorites. With year two loading for the duo, Doc Rivers needs to deliver as the time is short with a championship demand in high in the Cream City.