Giannis Antetokounmpo Probable for Friday's Game, Continues MVP-Caliber Production

Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) is probable for Friday's game against the Hornets. The perennial MVP candidate, who finished fourth in award voting last season, continues to dominate, with the addition of Damian Lillard boosting his efficiency to a career-high 30.4 points per game on 61.1% shooting and a career-high 6.5 assists. His defensive numbers also rebounded to 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. Entering his age-30 season, Antetokounmpo remains a top fantasy producer, though his poor free-throw shooting (64.5% last season on high volume) remains a significant factor in category leagues, often pushing his per-game fantasy value outside the top 10 despite his overall dominance. He has been voted to five consecutive All-NBA First Teams and won two MVPs and a Defensive Player of the Year award. While a persistent knee issue has limited him to under 67 games since 2018-19, most absences are maintenance-based. Despite potential usage shifts with Lillard, Antetokounmpo's high floor and upside make him a clear first-round selection.