Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton's availability for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers is uncertain after sustaining an ankle injury in the previous game and missing practice on Thursday.
During Game 2, Middleton injured his right ankle in the first quarter, briefly leaving the court to have it re-taped before returning to play 36 minutes. Bucks coach Doc Rivers stated that Middleton did not participate in practice on Thursday, casting doubt on his status for Friday's game in Indianapolis.
The series is currently tied 1-1, with Middleton averaging 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5 assists over the first two games.
Adding to the Bucks' injury concerns, two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has been sidelined since the regular season with a left calf strain. While Antetokounmpo showed progress by engaging in non-live activities during practice, his return date remains uncertain.
Rivers expressed optimism about Antetokounmpo's recovery, noting his increased movement, but refrained from specifying a potential return timeline.
The Bucks have a history of navigating injuries during the postseason, with Antetokounmpo missing playoff games in previous seasons due to ankle and knee injuries. Middleton also missed playoff games in 2022 due to a sprained medial collateral ligament.
As the team prepares for Game 3, the Bucks are closely monitoring the status of Middleton and Antetokounmpo, hoping for a swift return of their key players to bolster their playoff campaign.
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