Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing tonight against Chicago Bulls? Exploring Milwaukee Bucks superstar's status for preseason game (Oct. 14)
The Milwaukee Bucks host the Chicago Bulls in their third preseason game on Monday, with superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the Bucks' charge. As the team prepares for the grueling 82-game regular season, Giannis will play a key role at home. The Bucks have played two preseason games, with Giannis sitting out the opener but returning for the marquee game with LeBron James and the Lakers.
On his preseason debut, the two-time NBA MVP made an immediate impact, scoring 20 points on 10-of-18 shooting in under 20 minutes. He also added seven rebounds, two assists and two blocks, showcasing his all-around dominance on the floor.
The Bucks have two preseason games left, including Monday's game against Chicago, before Doc Rivers' squad tips off the regular season against the Philadelphia 76ers on Oct. 13.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to play both preseason games unless injury concerns or strategic rest decisions keep him sidelined in preparation for the regular season.
Giannis Antetokounmpo focused on being available for Milwaukee
Heading into the new season, Giannis Antetokounmpo's top priority is staying healthy and being regularly available for his team. In last season's playoffs, the eight-time All-Star missed all the games, which significantly contributed to the Bucks' first-round exit, losing in six games to the Indiana Pacers.
"Me personally, I'm trying to focus on myself as much as I can, focus on my team," Giannis said on media day. "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.
"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."
Giannis has been plagued by injuries over the past two seasons, with the Bucks getting eliminated in the first round of the playoffs both times.
How to watch Giannis Antetokounmpo is action during Bulls vs. Bucks preseason game?
The Chicago Bulls vs. Milwaukee Bucks preseason game will take place on Monday, Oct. 14, at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The game will tip off at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT).
Fans can watch Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks in action on NBA TV, while the live streaming of the game will be available on the NBA League Pass.