Stephen A.: Luka-Giannis on Lakers highly unlikely, but can never say never (2:22)
While Stephen A. Smith doesn’t believe Giannis Antetokounmpo and Luka Doncic teaming up with the Lakers will happen, he explains why it can’t be completely ruled out. (2:22)
-
Jamal CollierMar 2, 2026, 01:51 PM ET
- Jamal Collier is an NBA reporter at ESPN. Collier covers the Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls and the Midwest region of the NBA, including stories such as Minnesota’s iconic jersey swap between Anthony Edwards and Justin Jefferson. He has been at ESPN since Sept. 2021 and previously covered the Bulls for the Chicago Tribune. You can reach out to Jamal on Twitter @JamalCollier or via email Jamal.Collier@espn.com.
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to return for Monday’s game against the Boston Celtics, sources told ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Antetokounmpo is officially listed as questionable on Milwaukee’s injury report. He has missed the past 15 games after injuring his right calf against the Denver Nuggets on Jan. 23.
The Bucks found a way to sustain themselves, going 8-7 in Antetokounmpo’s absence, much improved from their dismal record without him in the past (3-11).
This will be Antetokounmpo’s first game back since last month’s NBA trade deadline, when both he and the Bucks explored their options for the future. The Bucks still want to prove to their superstar that his best chance to win another championship is in Milwaukee.
But rather than chase improved lottery odds, the Bucks remain committed to chasing a playoff spot.
Milwaukee begins Monday with a record of 26-33, in the No.11 spot in the Eastern Conference, three games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the conference’s final play-in spot.
Antetokounmpo has missed 29 games this season with a recurring right calf injury, but he’s still averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds and 5.6 assists in the 30 games he has played this season. Antetokounmpo made it clear that he wanted to return this season.
