Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined against Cavs due to strained adductor muscle

Coach Doc Rivers stated that Antetokounmpo participated in the team's morning shootaround before it was decided that he would sit out the game. Rivers mentioned that he had already made the decision to rest the two-time NBA MVP prior to receiving input from the medical staff.

Rivers said isn’t sure when Milwaukee’s best player got hurt. He noted that Antetokounmpo hates to miss any games, and especially with the Bucks off to a shaky start. Milwaukee has lost five straight.

“I had decided in my own mind that he shouldn’t play tonight right when they told me he that he was sore (Saturday),” Rivers said. “I was happy when they said — not happy because you want him to play — but for his health I think it’s the right thing.”

Antetokounmpo is averaging 31 points pfor the Bucks, who are just 1-5 and lost by one point at home to the Cavs on Saturday.

By sitting out, Antetokounmpo will have four days to rest before the Bucks host Utah on Thursday.