Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks After the All-Star Break 2023
The Milwaukee Bucks enter the All-Star break as one of the league's hottest teams. They have won 12 straight games despite missing key players for parts of that run.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is still recovering from his right wrist sprain that occurred Thursday night against the Chicago Bulls, but he doesn't appear too concerned about it yet.
1. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo is one of the most renowned players in the NBA. He has become a mainstay on his team's offense, averaging over 30 points per game and becoming their all-time leader in rebounds and assists. He's earned the title of All-Star captain twice, in 2019 and 2020 - an impressive achievement considering he's considered one of the greatest big men in NBA.
Giannis is renowned for his devotion to family. He and Mariah Riddlesprigger, a former Rice University volleyball player, share two children together.
2. Khris Middleton
After a slow start to the season, Middleton has improved and appears ready to contribute more for Milwaukee. He has played at least 20 minutes in six games since returning from injury on January 23 and is playing his best basketball yet.
On Wednesday night against Indiana, Budenholzer was active and it appears he is gradually increasing his minutes as he works to return to the lineup. He's still limited in minutes, but he is also attacking the rim with determination and trying to make plays when he steps on the court.
It's a style of play Milwaukee hasn't seen much this season - but he continues to deliver when it matters most.
3. Jrue Holiday
The Milwaukee Bucks boast an impressive core, but are missing a key piece. That's where Jrue Holiday steps in. On Thursday, Holiday was selected for his second All-Star Game and is an integral part of Milwaukee's team. He plays two ways and serves as a role model within the community of Milwaukee.
He's been an integral part of the Bucks' comeback this season, averaging 19.4 points, 7.2 assists and 5.2 rebounds per game. He's been an integral part of the team's record-breaking eight-game winning streak, and has been particularly effective since returning from a shoulder injury.
On Monday against the Chicago Bulls, he scored 40 points - his first 40-point game in over a decade - while hitting eight made threes on 13-of-21 shooting.
4. Jae Crowder
At the trade deadline, the Milwaukee Bucks acquired Jae Crowder from the Phoenix Suns.
Though he has yet to play since beginning of season in an extended standoff, they plan on giving him time during All-Star break to continue building up his conditioning before making his debut with the team.
On Monday, Eric Nehm reported that He practiced with the team and should be ready to go when the Bucks resume play against Miami on Friday, February 24. Unfortunately, he will miss Tuesday (vs. BOS) and Thursday (at CHI).
Crowder's talents as a 3-point shooter and big wing defender will be invaluable to the Bucks in their pursuit of another NBA title. Plus, his extensive playoff experience will add toughness on both ends of the floor.
“My lungs are where they need to be. My legs are heavy.”
Jae Crowder's debut with the Bucks will come after the All-Star break. #FearTheDeer
— Bally Sports Wisconsin (@BallySportWI) February 13, 2023