The Milwaukee Bucks played their first preseason game against the Detroit Pistons on October 6, 2024, giving fans a glimpse of the team’s new dynamics, including Damian Lillard’s second season and the continued integration of key players. However, the 120-87 loss came with an unfortunate twist, as Bucks starting shooting guard Gary Trent Jr. suffered a left elbow hyperextension late in the second quarter.
Gary Trent Jr. Suffers Elbow Injury in Bucks’ Preseason Opener Against Pistons
The Incident
Trent’s injury occurred with just over three minutes remaining in the second quarter after he collided with Pistons center Jalen Duren while fighting through a screen. Immediately after the play, Trent went down, clutching his left elbow. Bucks coach Doc Rivers called a timeout, and team medical personnel quickly assessed the situation. After staying down for several moments, Trent eventually got up and headed to the locker room for further examination.
Shortly after, the Bucks announced that Trent would not return to the game, citing a hyperextension of his left elbow. Further updates are expected in the coming days, but for now, the team and its fans will hold their breath as they await more information on his status.
Bucks Preseason Caution
The good news for Milwaukee is that the regular season is still more than two weeks away, with the Bucks opening their campaign on October 23 against the Philadelphia 76ers. This gives Trent valuable recovery time if the injury isn’t too severe. In preseason games, teams are typically cautious with their players, and while hyperextensions can range in severity, the hope is that Trent’s injury will not be a long-term concern.
Trent had a solid start to the game, scoring five points on 2-of-3 shooting before being forced to leave. His contributions at both ends of the floor were a welcome sight for the Bucks, who count on him to provide valuable minutes at the wing position this season. His ability to space the floor with his shooting and offer defensive versatility makes him a key part of the rotation, especially given the team’s aspirations to contend for a championship.
Impact of the Injury
Should Trent need to miss any significant time, the Bucks have other players in the mix who could fill in for him. Especially AJ Green could help fill the gap on the offensive side, providing valuable shooting that could mitigate Gary Trent Jr.’s absence.
Coach Rivers specifically highlighted Green’s impressive summer during Bucks Media Day, stating,
”I think AJ Green had an amazing summer overall. You didn’t see him much, but we saw him all summer, and he was phenomenal.”
With Green’s growth, he could be poised to play a larger role if Trent is sidelined. However, losing Trent, even temporarily, would still be a blow for Milwaukee. His shooting, defense, and overall presence are important to the team’s rotation, and with Coach Rivers still in the process of installing his system, any disruption to continuity could slow the team’s early-season progress.
Preseason Ups and Downs
Trent’s injury wasn’t the only story from the Bucks’ preseason opener. Damian Lillard showed fans just how explosive he can be, scoring or assisting on Milwaukee’s first 17 points. His quick trigger and ability to score in various ways were on full display as the Bucks raced out to a 24-6 lead early in the game.
Unfortunately, the game turned after the first quarter. With Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton sitting out and Coach Rivers limiting minutes for his starters, Milwaukee struggled to maintain offensive momentum in the second half. The Pistons capitalized, outscoring the Bucks 31-21 in the third quarter and 29-8 in the fourth to turn the contest into a lopsided loss.
Looking Ahead
For the Bucks, the priority now is ensuring that Gary Trent Jr.’s injury isn’t a long-term concern. The team has the depth to cover for him if needed, but having Trent healthy and ready for the regular season would be a significant boost as Milwaukee seeks to make a deep playoff run. The Bucks will face the Los Angeles Lakers in their next preseason game on October 10, and with Trent possibly missing time to recover, all eyes will watch how Milwaukee builds chemistry and integrates their new system under Coach Rivers.
