Bucks' Mirotic, via Twitter, declares himself ready to play
* Tonight on TNT: Celtics vs. Bucks, 8 ET
Newly acquired Milwaukee Bucks forward Nikola Mirotic, nursing a calf injury, seems poised to make his Milwaukee debut tonight against the Boston Celtics. Officially, Mirotic is listed as probable on the Bucks’ pregame injury report.
However, Mirotic seemed to make it more certain he’s playing by releasing a video on Twitter this afternoon that simply read: “I’m ready,” followed by a fire emoji, a basketball emoji and #FearTheDear.
I’m ready #FearTheDeer
by @HacheGroup pic.twitter.com/Nqv1hxov9t
— Nikola Mirotic (@NikolaMirotic33) February 21, 2019
The Bucks, currently the top team in the Eastern Conference, acquired Mirotic in a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans at the Feb. 7 trade deadline. Milwaukee gave up Jason Smith and Stanley Johnson and four second-round picks.
Mirotic has played in 32 games this season for the Pelicans, and has been productive, averaging career highs in points (16.7) and rebounds (8.3) per game, and is close to his highs in steals and blocks. He’s missed four Bucks’ games since the trade, but appears ready to play now with an initial minutes restriction.
The #FearTheDeer newcomer Nikola Mirotic said he feels better, hopes to play tomorrow vs the #Celtics.
— A. Sherrod Blakely (@ASherrodblakely) February 20, 2019
At 43-14 entering the All-Star break, the Bucks hold the best record in the Eastern Conference and the league.
A career 39.5 percent shooter from beyound the arc, Mirotic could help the Bucks stretch the floor, opening up driving lanes for Giannis Antetokounmpo.
