After a disappointing early playoff exit last season, the Milwaukee Bucks look hungrier than ever. They’ve kicked off the preseason strong and have notched back-to-back wins. One was against the Miami Heat, and another was over the Detroit Pistons.
But through those victories, the face of the franchise that is Giannis Antetokounmpo had been missing. As the Bucks prepare for their next preseason showdown, which is against the Chicago Bulls, fans have just one question on their mind: whether Antetokounmpo will finally play tonight or not.
Will Giannis Antetokounmpo Suit up Against the Chicago Bulls?
There’s a good update for the Bucks fans. According to Bucks insider Eric Nehm, head coach Doc Rivers confirmed that Antetokounmpo was a full participant in Saturday’s practice session. Moreover, Rivers also told Nehm that he plans to play the Greek Freak in Sunday’s preseason matchup against the Bulls.
“Bucks head coach Doc Rivers tells reporters that Giannis Antetokounmpo went live five-on-five at today’s practice and they plan on having him play on Sunday against the Bulls,” wrote Nehm on his X.
This comes as a major sigh of relief for Bucks fans who have been eagerly awaiting the two-time MVP’s return to the floor.
Antetokounmpo had missed the first few days of training camp and the Bucks’ initial two preseason games while recovering from a recent case of COVID-19. But with his recovery now complete, the superstar forward is ready to rejoin the action.
This offseason, the rumor mill surrounding Antetokounmpo has been non-stop. Constant speculation linked him to potential trade talks. This also included a recent buzz about the New York Knicks being a destination for the Greek Freak. However, if we set those rumors aside, there’s no denying the impact that Antetokounmpo will bring when he’s on the court.
In the 2024–2025 regular season, Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists over 67 games. He led the Bucks to a (48–34) record and another playoff berth.
Despite his dominant season, Milwaukee’s postseason run was abruptly cut short. The Indiana Pacers eliminated them in the first round. Now, with his return confirmed, fans are eager to see if he’ll carry that same fire into the new campaign.
On the Bucks’ injury front, the team appears largely healthy. The only player currently listed is Kyle Kuzma, who is marked as “probable” for Sunday’s matchup as he recovers from a hip injury sustained in practice.
What Is the Condition of the Chicago Bulls Squad?
Now, shifting focus to the Chicago Bulls. They’ve also been off to a strong preseason start as the Bulls have won both their preseason games so far. They have defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers twice. However, they’re also managing some minor injury concerns.
As per ESPN, the Bulls’ injury list includes Coby White, Kevin Huerter, Julian Phillips, and Nikola Vučević, all listed as day-to-day.
While there’s a chance some of them could play, the team may enter the matchup slightly shorthanded. Still, the Bucks can’t afford to take them lightly as players like Zach Collins have been showing their elite skills and could make things interesting. The clash between the Bucks and Bulls tips off tonight at 7 PM ET (October 12).
