NBA Shocker: Bobby Portis Hit with 25-Game Suspension Over Painkiller Mix-Up!
The Milwaukee Bucks just got a major curveball thrown their way! In a stunning announcement, the NBA has suspended star forward Bobby Portis for 25 games after he violated the league’s anti-drug policy. This ruling shakes up the Bucks’ season as they fight to stay competitive in the Eastern Conference.
So, what happened? According to his agent, Mark Bartelstein, Portis unknowingly took Tramadol, a banned painkiller, thinking it was Toradol, a league-approved medication for pain and inflammation. The mix-up reportedly happened because an assistant, who had a valid prescription for Tramadol, mistakenly gave it to Portis, believing it was Toradol.
“Bobby made an honest mistake, and the consequences are severe,” Bartelstein told ESPN. “He was dealing with an elbow injury and took what he thought was Toradol to ease the pain before a game. Unfortunately, Tramadol was only recently added to the banned list, and this simple mix-up has cost him dearly.”
How This Affects the Bucks
Losing Portis is a crushing blow for Milwaukee. The 2021 NBA champion has been a powerhouse off the bench, averaging 13.7 points and 8.3 rebounds across 46 games this season. He ranks among the best sixth men in the league, finishing top three in Sixth Man of the Year voting for two consecutive seasons.
With the Bucks currently 29-24 and sitting in fifth place in the East, this suspension could derail their playoff push. The team now has an open roster spot and may need to make a move fast to fill the void left by Portis.
Portis’ Financial Hit & Return Date
Aside from missing most of the remaining season, Portis will also forfeit $2.85 million in salary. He has chosen not to appeal the suspension and will be eligible to return on April 8 against the Minnesota Timberwolves—just in time for the final four games of the regular season.
Final Thoughts
This unexpected suspension leaves fans and analysts in shock. A seemingly innocent mistake has now sidelined one of the NBA’s top bench players. Will the Bucks manage to hold their ground without their key weapon, or will this setback cost them a deep playoff run? Stay tuned for more updates as the drama unfolds!
