NOVEMBER 28: Henson underwent successful surgery, the team announced on its website. The Bucks are hoping he will be back for the playoffs or maybe even earlier, tweets ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
NOVEMBER 16: Bucks backup center John Henson will undergo surgery after being diagnosed with a torn ligament in his left wrist, the team announced today in a press release. Henson initially sustained the injury on November 6 before reporting additional discomfort after Milwaukee’s game on Wednesday, per the club.
While the Bucks don’t provide a specific timeline on Henson’s recovery in their announcement, Shams Charania of The Athletic reports (via Twitter) that the big man is expected to be sidelined for at least the next 12 weeks. While Henson plans to return this season, it likely won’t happen until after February’s All-Star break, according to Charania.
It’s a tough break for the Bucks and for Henson, who had been giving the team solid minutes as Brook Lopez‘s backup at the five. In 14 games (13.4 MPG), the 27-year-old had recorded 5.6 PPG and 5.1 RPG. He has even added a three-point shot to his game this season under new head coach Mike Budenholzer, making 0.8 threes per game at a 35.5% rate.
With Henson on the shelf, Thon Maker figures to take on a larger role off Milwaukee’s bench, while Christian Wood could also get a chance to earn minutes.
The Bucks’ update today also notes that Donte DiVincenzo will miss at least the next three games after suffering a minor left quadriceps strain. Pat Connaughton figures to be first in line to help replace DiVincenzo’s production.
Hopefully Maker & Wood will step up, so the team doesn’t suffer & they can really progress & become an important part of the team. I have strong believe in Maker… but so far has only shown glimpses, hoping he can really take off.
I think the Lopez twin could be had in a trade. Being out for 12 weeks could be a good reason to consider bringing him in to the Bucks team
It’s a possibility, as long as Bango is spared from Lopez’s abuse. I grew up with Bango and I would be traumatized if anything ever happened to him.
Maker really has an opportunity here. If he blows it, I’m not sure how much more patience the Bucks will have past this season. Admittedly, Maker is still a kid but this is Year 3 and he has to show more significant growth for a team that should land in the East’s top 3.