NBA Injury Report: Giannis Antetokounmpo probable, Bradley Beal questionable and updates on Robert Williams III and Jrue Holiday | January 3, 2023
Two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has been upgraded to probable by the Milwaukee Bucks for tonight’s encounter against the Washington Wizards. The “Greek Freak” sat out Sunday’s first meeting between the two teams due to left knee soreness.
The Bucks were severely short-handed as Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday were also ruled out. Without their big three, the Bucks succumbed to a 118-95 thumping at the hands of the Wizards.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) listed probable for Tuesday.
Tonight’s matchup will be significantly different despite Middleton continuing to sit out. Both Antetokounmpo and Holiday are expected to play in their rematch with Washington.
The former NBA Defensive Player of the Year has been thoroughly dominant in his last two games. He exploded for 45 points, 22 rebounds and seven assists versus the Chicago Bulls last Wednesday. Antetokounmpo followed it up with 43 points, 20 rebounds and five assists against the Minnesota Timberwolves last Friday.
Antetokounmpo’s consecutive 40-point, 20-rebound games are the first in the NBA since Moses Malone did it back in 1982.
The Bucks are struggling right now, losing five of their last six games. Having Giannis Antetokounmpo back will not guarantee a win, but they’re surely in better shape when the six-time NBA All-Star is available.
Meanwhile, the Washington Wizards could miss Bradley Beal, the team’s franchise player. The three-time NBA All-Star is dealing with left hamstring soreness. He started to feel discomfort in that area in the Wizards’ 116-111 win over the Philadelphia 76ers last December 28.
Beal has missed Washington’s last three games, including the initial encounter between the Bucks. He may also miss the rematch if nothing changes in his status.
Bradley Beal (hamstring) listed questionable for Tuesday.
The Wizards’ starting shooting guard has played just 23 of the team’s 38 games, averaging 23.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists.
Washington have seemingly played well without Bradley Beal. After losing 11 of their last 12 games, they are now on a five-game winning streak.
Having Beal in the lineup tonight, however, will be very helpful as the Milwaukee Bucks could bring back Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday. Both superstars were ruled out with their respective injuries two nights ago.
Robert Williams III: Left knee injury management
The Boston Celtics have been extremely careful with Robert Williams’ left knee. They’ve strictly monitored his minutes and have given him a bench role as he eases into his return. He has played seven of the Celtics’ last eight games and could be sidelined tonight.
“Time Lord” is still finding his rhythm after making his season debut on December 16 at home against the Orlando Magic. Boston lost their first three games with their defensive anchor in the middle.
#NEBHInjuryReport for tomorrow vs. Oklahoma City:
Danilo Gallinari (left knee ACL repair) - OUT
Robert Williams (left knee injury management) - QUESTIONABLE
They’ve somehow adjusted to his presence and have reeled off four straight wins before losing the other night to the Denver Nuggets.
Al Horford and Luke Kornet will see more minutes against the OKC Thunder if Williams sits out another game.
Jrue Holiday Non-Covid illness since December 28, 2022
Jrue Holiday has been upgraded to probable when the Milwaukee Bucks host the Washington Wizards again tonight. The former NBA All-Star has missed the Bucks’ last three games due to a non-Covid related illness.
Jrue Holiday (illness) listed probable for Tuesday.
Holiday, though, is expected to play as he has already practiced with the team. Unless a setback happens in this morning’s shootaround, he should be available for tonight.