Kristaps gets Freaky on the Greek

MILWAUKEE — When combating a “Greek Freak,” it’s helpful to have a Unicorn.

Kristaps Porzingis returned from three-game absence because of a sore Achilles and put on a show, trading highlights and freakish plays with Giannis Antetokounmpo on Friday night.

Most importantly, Porzingis finished the game unscathed, logging 30 minutes with 24 points in a 116-111 victory.

“No soreness at all. I don’t even feel tired. Maybe I should’ve worked harder during the game,” he joked. “I’m happy that I have no problem with the Achilles.”

Porzingis’ highlight was a three-possession sequence in the fourth quarter, when he nailed a trey, blocked Antetokounmpo and hit another 3-pointer from 35-feet feet.

“After I’m done with my pregame workout, that’s the type of shot I always take,” the 21-year-old said. “I feel comfortable with that shot now. And obviously I’m not going to shoot it every time but at that moment after hitting that first three I felt comfortable. And I was like, I’m just going to shoot it. It went in.”

Porzingis started the game with a “Dream Shake” to fool Antetokounmpo, and ended it with his sixth foul when he bumped into Antetokounmpo fighting for a loose ball.

The two Euros battled all night after Porzingis missed the previous KnicksBucks matchup on Wednesday at the Garden, when Antetokounmpo nailed the game-winner at the buzzer.

Before Friday’s game, coach Jeff Hornacek warned that he may have pulled Porzingis if he showed sign of pain or fatigue. But Porzingis only grew stronger as the game progressed, scoring 15 points in the second half on 6-of-9 shooting.

“We’re going to probably take a look at it. We’ll look at it, and kind of keep an eye on him, talk to him, ask him how he’s feeling. He has to be honest with us,” Hornacek said. “If he says he’s starting to get sore, we’re going to have to take him out.”

New York lost all three games without Porzingis, and the defense suffered the most in his absence, allowing an average of 116.3 points.

On Wednesday, Milwaukee forward Giannis Antetokounmpo went off for 27 points, 13 rebounds and hit the game-winner at the buzzer.

The “Greek Freak” also had a strong showing in the first returns of the AllStar votes announced Thursday, sitting second among Eastern Conference frontcourt players behind only LeBron James. Antetokounmpo (500,663 votes) is well ahead of Carmelo Anthony (189,817) and Porzingis (184,166).

“I’d have a million votes if everyone could spell my name right,” Antetokounmpo said.