NBA Notes: Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Thunder, Jalen Williams, Brandon Ingram

Bucks

The Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo didn’t find a trade partner at the deadline, but Milwaukee still has a major Giannis decision staring it in the face.

Antetokounmpo is working his way back from a calf strain, and the question now is timing.

If he’s ready soon, do the Bucks push for the play-in or slow-play his return to protect both his health and their draft position?

One Western Conference executive summed it up bluntly to ESPN’s Jamal Collier: “Everything they do is in service of Giannis. It would absolutely be in their best interest to play for a draft pick, but if Giannis wants to try to make the play-in, they’ll try to make the play-in.”

Head coach Doc Rivers has suggested Antetokounmpo may not be far off. Whether Milwaukee follows the standings or the superstar will likely tell you everything about where this season is headed.

Thunder

Jalen Williams picked a pretty good night to remind everyone how valuable he is.

Returning from a 10-game absence with a hamstring strain, Williams scored 23 points, including 10 in the fourth quarter, to help Oklahoma City close out a 119-110 road win over the Lakers.

“He slammed the door on that game,” coach Mark Daigneault said, via Justin Martinez of the Oklahoman. “We’re not overly concerned with how he plays coming back. We’re just happy he’s back. Obviously, he was huge tonight.”

The Thunder didn’t rush him, and the payoff showed up when it mattered most.

Raptors

Six years after his first All-Star nod, Brandon Ingram is headed back to the game.

Ingram was named an injury replacement for Stephen Curry, who will miss the event due to a lingering knee issue. It’s Ingram’s second All-Star appearance and his first as a Raptor.

The 28-year-old is averaging 22.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while leading Toronto in scoring.

While Scottie Barnes has been the Raptors’ most complete player, Ingram has lifted an offense that struggled mightily in the half-court a year ago.

He’ll now join a star-heavy USA Stripes roster that includes LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard in what should be one of the more entertaining All-Star formats in years. Finally.