Report: Jericho Sims likely available for first round of playoffs

The trade deadline big man acquisition is returning from thumb surgery

As the Milwaukee Bucks gear up for the start of their first-round playoff series against the Indiana Pacers later this week, we’ve been getting updates about player availability in drips and drabs. For example, Damian Lillard was deemed a “miss” for the start of the playoffs earlier today as he works his way back from his DVT diagnosis. The other Buck sidelined by injury who has been eying a possible return for the postseason is one Jericho Sims. Per head coach Doc Rivers, it seems the bench center will be reporting for duty this weekend:

Sims has been out of commission since mid-March having sustained a torn ligament in his right thumb sustained, somewhat ironically, during a victory over the Indiana Pacers. At the time, his departure from the rotation seemed something of a serious blow given the then ongoing suspension of Bobby Portis, a hot playoff race in the East’s middle tier, and the simple fact that Sims had seemed a useful change of stylistic pace from the backup big spot at minimum.

Milwaukee ultimately weathered his absence and now has had access to its normal allotment of bigs between Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez, and Portis. Still, against an opponent like the Pacers who are a bit smaller, an option like Sims off the bench to provide a modicum of switching from a center and interior presence on offense could come in handy. Jericho has appeared in 14 games as a Buck, averaging 2.4 points and 4.9 rebounds in around 15 minutes of play. Here’s a two minute compilation from his, quote, “BEST GAME as a BUCK!” against the Brooklyn Nets for those of you who might’ve forgot what he was about pre-injury:

Fully expect him to play a minimal role—if any at all—to start the series this Saturday, but don’t be surprised if he gets a little run once the coaching chess match gets fully underway against the Pacers.

Welcome back, Jericho!