MILWAUKEE — According to the Athletic, Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo avoided the dreaded Achilles tear and now will have treatment for a strained calf.

When he'll be able to return to action depends on how he responds to treatment. 

Two things are important to note. First, the regular season concludes this week and then the Bucks won't start playoff action until the weekend of April 20-21. 

Secondly, Giannis' history is important to consider. He attacks rehab with the same diligence he uses to play. He hates to miss games and is a fast healer.

I can't tell you how many times I've seen him absorb injuries and return more quickly than expected. The 2021 championship run is the most notable example.

It was an eerie atmosphere at Fiserv Forum Tuesday night when Giannis hobbled off. Fans got quiet and understandably worried about Giannis and the upcoming playoffs.

The postgame media sessions were somber. The extent of his injury wasn't known yet, so Head Coach Doc Rivers and Giannis' teammates could only hope for the best.

Assuming the Athletic report is accurate, the Bucks seem to have dodged a bullet. Now, Giannis has to be protected from himself. He can't rush back and make the injury worse.

Could the Bucks win a playoff series or two without Giannis? Maybe. They certainly couldn't win a championship without him.