Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing tonight vs the New Orleans Pelicans? Latest update on the Milwaukee Bucks star's injury report (February 20, 2026)

Giannis Antetokounmpo will not play for the Milwaukee Bucks against the New Orleans Pelicans on February 20, 2026. He is still out with a right calf strain and has not been cleared to return.Milwaukee heads into this game needing a result but without its main player. The team has struggled to stay consistent in the standings, and his absence continues to affect how they approach games.

Milwaukee Bucks vs New Orleans Pelicans Game details and current situation (February 20, 2026)

The Milwaukee Bucks play the Pelicans in New Orleans with tip-off set for 8:00 p.m. ET. The game will be shown on FDSN Wisconsin and Pelicans+.Giannis has been dealing with this calf issue since January. Milwaukee made roster changes to add depth, including Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner, but Turner is also out with a calf injury.

That leaves the team short on size.

Giannis Antetokounmpo injury update vs New Orleans Pelicans (February 20, 2026)

Giannis Antetokounmpo's injury worsened in late January during a game against Denver. Tests later showed a soleus strain, similar to the problem he had in December.He was expected to miss four to six weeks. He has not returned to full practice, and the coaching staff has confirmed he is not ready. This is the second time this season he has missed extended time with a calf issue.

Milwaukee Bucks injury report vs New Orleans Pelicans (February 20, 2026)

Milwaukee Bucks is missing multiple players going into this game.

With these players out, others will need to take on bigger roles. Bobby Portis and Gary Trent Jr. are expected to handle more of the scoring. Kevin Porter Jr. and Jericho Sims should also see more minutes.

New Orleans Pelicans injury situation

New Orleans has fewer issues. Trey Murphy III is listed as questionable, but the rest of the main group is available.Zion Williamson and Dejounte Murray are set to play. The team also has support from players like Jordan Poole and Yves Missi, giving them more options.

Milwaukee Bucks roster and available players

Available players for Milwaukee include Thanasis Antetokounmpo, Cole Anthony, Amir Coffey, A.J. Green, Gary Harris, Andre Jackson Jr., Kyle Kuzma, Pete Nance, Kevin Porter Jr., Bobby Portis, Ryan Rollins, Mark Sears, Jericho Sims, and Gary Trent Jr.Taurean Prince and Myles Turner are out. Damian Lillard is no longer on the roster.

What to expect in tonight's Bucks vs Pelicans game (February 20, 2026)

Milwaukee has gone 3-11 in games without Giannis this season. That record shows how much the team depends on him.Also read: Milwaukee Bucks vs New Orleans Pelicans injury report: Who's playing, injured and questionable players, head-to-head records, team stats, and more (February 20, 2026)Portis will need to help on the boards, and Trent’s shooting will be important. New Orleans has more players available, and that could make the difference in this game.