The NBA has suspended Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. for 25 games without pay due to a positive test for Tramadol, a painkiller prohibited under league policies. Portis claims he used an NBA-approved medication for an elbow injury but mistakenly took Tramadol instead of the permitted Toradol. His suspension began during the Bucks' recent victory over the Los Angeles Clippers and will keep him from playing until April 8, potentially impacting the Bucks' playoff ambitions.

Portis expressed regret for the situation, acknowledging his responsibility for the substances he consumes. Despite the setback, he aims to return ready for the playoffs. The Bucks' coach, Doc Rivers, criticized the harshness of the penalty, arguing that the circumstances warrant a more lenient response. This season has already been challenging for Portis, who recently dealt with the loss of his grandmother.