Giannis Antetokounmpo is dealing with calf injury (Image via NBA)

Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to be available for the Milwaukee Bucks on December 27, 2025, when they play the Chicago Bulls at the United Center. He is still listed as needing final clearance before tip-off, but the expectation around the team is that he will suit up.Milwaukee enters the game at 12–19 after a difficult stretch without its best player. Chicago is 15–15 and has won five straight. The matchup puts a struggling Bucks team against a Bulls group that has found consistency over the past week.

Giannis Antetokounmpo's injury report vs the Chicago Bulls (December 27, 2025)

Antetokounmpo suffered a right calf strain on December 3 against the Detroit Pistons. The injury was non-contact and happened early in the first quarter while he was moving back on defense.

He went down immediately and did not return.

The initial recovery window was set at two to four weeks. Over the past several days, he has taken part in full-contact scrimmages and increased his workload in practice. As of late Friday, the Bucks had not issued final confirmation, with the decision expected after pregame medical checks.Milwaukee without GiannisThe Bucks went 2–6 during Antetokounmpo’s absence. His production has been hard to replace.

He is averaging 28.9 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists this season while shooting 63.9 percent from the field.Milwaukee’s latest loss, a 125–104 defeat to Memphis, showed many of the same problems. The offense stalled for long stretches, and the defense allowed too many clean looks. Kevin Porter Jr. provided scoring, but the team struggled to control the game.Injuries have added to the issues. Gary Trent Jr. missed time with a left calf contusion and is questionable, while Taurean Prince remains out indefinitely following neck surgery.Bulls riding a steady stretchChicago comes in with momentum and a healthier rotation. Josh Giddey has been productive recently, averaging 15.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 13 assists over his last few games. Nikola Vucević continues to be a reliable presence inside.Patrick Williams is questionable due to illness, but the rest of the rotation is intact. The Bulls are expected to push the pace and challenge Milwaukee in transition, especially if Antetokounmpo is limited.What to watchIf Antetokounmpo plays, a minutes restriction is likely. Milwaukee will want him back on the floor without pushing too hard in his first game after missing eight straight.Tip-off is set for around 8 p.m. ET. For the Bucks, the game offers a chance to stabilize their season. For the Bulls, it is an opportunity to extend their winning streak against a division rival still searching for rhythm.