Giannis Defies Bucks, Vows Season Return

Giannis Antetokounmpo wants to keep playing even as the Bucks asked him to "shut down for the remainder of the season" after a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise, a request he has "refused." He has missed chunks of the year with calf issues, and Milwaukee sits 28-40 and 11th in the East, so the club fears risking a worse injury with little playoff upside. Merlin sees a clash of will and wisdom. Giannis still averages 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.4 assists on 62.4 percent shooting, so he shifts the balance when healthy, but pushing through now could imperil his prime and deepen questions about his long-term future in Milwaukee.