Bucks' Giannis Antetokounmpo Enters Health and Safety Protocols, Out vs. Pacers

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Scott Polacek is the featured columnist for December 15, 2021.

AP Photo/Charles Krupa

The Milwaukee Bucks will be without their best player for Wednesday's game against the Pacers.

The NBA placed Antetokounmpo in the health and safety protocols and he won't play. Antetokounmpo told reporters that he had been shot against COVID-19 and that he would face an easier path to return to the court.

Concerns about the Omicron variant of COVID-19 have dominated the headlines, but sports have not been immune from the effects of the Pandemic.

The NHL said the Flames games were postponed through at least Thursday with six players and one staff member entering health and safety protocols.

The last two days have seen 75 players test positive, according to Adam.

Several executives around the NBA told the reporter they expect positive cases to increase around the holidays as players and team employees gather indoors. Most of us consider it a matter of when, not if, the Omicron variant will spread through the league, according to one Western Conference general manager.

Losing Antetokounmpo for any amount of time would be a huge blow to the team.

The reigning champion is led by the two-time Most Valuable Player, who is averaging 28.0 points, 11.9 rebound, 5.8 assists, 1.6 blocks and 1.1 steals per game. The Milwaukee Bucks are on a short list of realistic championship contender in the next two years.

Milwaukee received some positive news Tuesday.

According to Tim Bontemps, Khris Middleton is questionable for Wednesday's game because of a hyperextended left knee. If he is able to play, he will be the go-to option.