NBA Injury Report: Giannis Antetokounmpo doubtful, Ben Simmons questionable and more updates on Bradley Beal and Tyler Herro | February 24, 2023
Two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has been officially ruled doubtful by the Milwaukee Bucks for tonight’s game against the Miami Heat. Antetokounmpo injured his wrist last Feb. 16 in a game versus the Chicago Bulls.
The “Greek Freak” went to New York right after the All-Star game to have more tests on his wrist. Although the X-rays were negative, he will likely be sidelined for a few more days. The Milwaukee Bucks will err on the side of caution and wait for him to completely heal before allowing him to play.
The Bucks have submitted an injury report for Friday's game against the Heat.
OUT:
Wesley Matthews (right calf strain)
Doubtful:
Giannis Antetokounmpo (right wrist sprain)
Pat Connaughton (left calf soreness)
The seven-time NBA All-Star reportedly didn’t fully participate in the Bucks’ practice on Wednesday. He is still feeling a little pain in his wrist. Until then, expect him to ride on the bench in the next few games.
Fortunately for head coach Mike Budenholzer, he will have Bobby Portis back, who usually starts in place of Antetokounmpo when the superstar is unavailable. The newly-acquired Jae Crowder has also been cleared to play and could debut for the Bucks tonight.
Meanwhile, Brooklyn Nets point guard Ben Simmons is questionable tonight against the Chicago Bulls. Simmons’ left knee, which has already caused him to miss several games this season, has flared up again.
The former NBA All-Star played against the Miami Heat before the All-Star break. He was on the court for just 20 minutes and finished with two points, four rebounds and four assists. Simmons appeared to be gingerly favoring one knee when he was taken out of the game.
Ben Simmons is questionable with knee soreness tomorrow 🚨🚨🚨
“Big Ben” has played in 42 of the Brooklyn Nets' 58 games. There’s a big chance that he could add to that tally tonight.
Joe Harris, Cam Thomas and Seth Curry are expected to get more minutes if the former NBA Rookie of the Year winner is unavailable.
Bradley Beal: Right knee soreness; Injured since February 17, 2023
Bradley Beal’s right knee soreness has dogged him for over two months already. He was listed by the Washington Wizards as questionable tonight against the New York Knicks.
Beal played last Feb. 16 versus the Minnesota Timberwolves and finished with a game-high 35 points, six rebounds, five assists and three steals. Despite the long All-Star break, he is still feeling sore in his right knee.
Bradley Beal (knee) questionable for Friday.
The three-time NBA All-Star has reportedly missed two practices already due to the same issue. He could be a game-time decision as the Wizards will check on his status after the morning shootaround and pregame warmups.
Monte Morris and Deni Avdija could see more playing time if Bradley Beal is sidelined.
Tyler Herro: Left knee contusion; Injured since February 11, 2023
Tyler Herro injured his left knee in the Miami Heat’s 107-103 overtime win against the Orlando Magic. He then missed Miami’s past two games heading into the All-Star break.
The reigning NBA Sixth Man of the Year winner has been upgraded to probable by the Miami Heat when they take on the Milwaukee Bucks.
Heat's injury report now also lists:
Tyler Herro, Probable, Left Knee; Contusion
Unless he suffers a setback, Herro should be back in action for a marquee matchup against the Bucks in Milwaukee.