Giannis Antetokounmpo Out vs. Knicks with Ankle Injury

The Milwaukee Bucks announced star Giannis Antetokounmpo has been ruled out for Saturday's game vs. the New York Knicks with right ankle soreness.

The injury comes as the 42-37 Bucks are battling for playoff position, though they'll need their superstar at 100 percent when the postseason hits should they qualify. The Bucks are currently No. 7 seed in the East.

Antetokounmpo has stayed in relatively good health this season. He missed four total games due to right knee soreness over the first few months of the season, and he was briefly sidelined with a right ankle sprain in March. However, none of those injuries were more than the day-to-day variety.

The 23-year-old is having the best season of his career, averaging 27.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.4 blocks, and is the team's leading scorer, rebounder and shot-blocker. Those numbers helped him earn a second consecutive All-Star nod.

Sitting Antetokounmpo is likely a precautionary move. The Bucks have clinched a playoff spot for the second straight year and will be looking to make a run at full strength after the regular season.

Milwaukee has not made it out of the first round since 2001. A group effort from Khris Middleton, Eric Bledsoe, Jabari Parker and John Henson must make up for the star's absence, as tough as that may be.