The injury bug has struck the NBA again. This time, it’s got Giannis Antetokounmpo, who will miss the next two to four weeks with a calf strain he sustained in Wednesday’s game against the Pistons. Here are the fantasy basketball implications of Antetokounmpo’s injury.
Fantasy Basketball Injury: Antetokounmpo Out For 2-4 Weeks
Bobby Portis Time
After spending most of the season on the bench, Bobby Portis will fill the gaping hole in the frontcourt. He’s only started two games in 2025-26, but impressed with averages of 18.5 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 2.5 3PM and 66.7 FG%. While the 30-year-old is having one of his worst fantasy seasons in years, he’s proved that he can step up when called upon. He’s posted respectable rankings in the past and can make an impact on both ends of the floor. Portis is the prime beneficiary of Antetokounmpo’s extended absence and is a must-roster power forward.
<img width="1024" height="683" class="wp-image-168903 size-large" src="https://lastwordonsports.com/basketball/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/2025/12/USATSI_27733972_168402036_lowres-1024×683.jpg" alt="Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) and Milwaukee Bucks guard
Kevin Porter Jr. and Kyle Kuzma Need To Step Up
With the Bucks lacking star power, they’ll have to rely on other players for production. Thankfully, Kevin Porter Jr. returned from his knee injury three games ago and has looked fantastic. In the few matches he’s suited up for, he’s posting 19.8 PPG, 5.0 APG, 1.8 SPG and 3.3 3PM on very efficient shooting splits. He’s been a solid replacement for Damian Lillard, who was waived over the offseason. Moreover, Porter Jr. was Milwaukee’s second-highest scorer behind Antetokounmpo. The guard’s scoring output should increase given his extra offensive responsibilities.
Kyle Kuzma will also be utilized more. Despite having a 36.4% consistency rating per Hashtag Basketball, he’s had some decent stretches. Across six matches without Antetokounmpo, the former Wizard has compiled 11.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.3 APG and 1.0 stocks. While these numbers aren’t super impressive, the forward is in a position to improve some of his numbers, and he offers some appeal in deeper formats.
Other Beneficiaries
Missing the dominating presence of Antetokounmpo could give Myles Turner a boost up the rankings. He’ll have a lot more work to do in the paint and could see a rise in his defensive numbers. The big man is currently placed 70th in category formats.
Ryan Rollins also stands to benefit. He remained in the first unit despite Porter Jr.’s return, although his production has taken a hit. The former second-round pick was an excellent fill-in while the point guard was injured, and figures to play a big role on the offensive end through his scoring and playmaking. This was evidenced by his strong performance across 39 minutes on Wednesday.
In very deep leagues, A.J. Green and Gary Trent Jr. are serviceable for some points and threes.
The Last Word
Amidst the trade rumours and now with the injury news, Antetokounmpo is a buy low. Given the reports swirling, it also looks like the Bucks can afford to take their time with the nine-time All-Star’s recovery. While he was the team’s leader in points, rebounds and assists, there are plenty of ways his teammates can step up. So, make sure Portis, Portis Jr. and Rollins are rostered.
Featured image: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
The post Fantasy Basketball Injury: Antetokounmpo Out For 2-4 Weeks appeared first on Last Word On Basketball.