Bucks' Mirotic expected to play in Game 1 vs. Pistons

The banged-up Milwaukee Bucks are about to get some much-needed help.

Forward Nikola Mirotic is expected to play in Sunday's first-round series opener against the Detroit Pistons barring "something unexpected," head coach Mike Budenholzer told reporters, including ESPN's Malika Andrews.

Mirotic participated in the Bucks' full practice without pain Friday and took part in a non-contact practice Saturday.

"Not much soreness, as we expected," Mirotic said, according to Andrews. "I should be ready to go."

The 28-year-old hasn't played since March 19 due a thumb injury. He was acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the trade deadline and has averaged 11.6 points on 41.5 percent shooting across 14 appearances for the Bucks.

Milwaukee is already missing starting guard Malcolm Brogdon (foot) and veteran Pau Gasol (ankle), while rookie Donte DiVincenzo (heel) has been shut down for the season.

The Bucks enter the playoffs with the league's best record (60-22) and having won seven of their last 10.