Giannis scores 19 in return as Bucks fall to Celtics

Giannis Antetokounmpo had 19 points and 11 rebounds in his return to the lineup Monday, but it wasn’t enough as the Milwaukee Bucks fell 108-81 to the Boston Celtics.

Antetokounmpo hadn’t played since Jan. 23 due to a right calf strain. The 31-year-old was averaging 28 points and 10 rebounds prior to his 15-game absence.

Antetokounmpo’s name circulated in trade rumors for several weeks leading up to the NBA’s Feb. 5 deadline. The Bucks opted not to trade their franchise player, and the Greek Freak reaffirmed his loyalty to the team.

The Bucks are 3.5 games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference following Monday’s result.

Milwaukee hasn’t missed the playoffs since 2015-16.