Giannis Cleared as Bucks Host Bulls in NBA Cup Showdown
The Milwaukee Bucks are back in action tonight after a short break, taking on their long-time Central Division rivals, the Chicago Bulls, at Fiserv Forum. And this isn’t just another regular-season matchup — it’s also part of the NBA Cup pool play, giving the game an extra edge.
The rivalry between these two teams runs deep, with Chicago currently holding a slim 137-134 lead in their all-time series. But this particular matchup carries even more weight because the Bulls are sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference with an impressive 6-1 start to the season. Milwaukee, on the other hand, stands at 5-3, aiming to bounce back after a tough loss to the Toronto Raptors earlier this week.
Now, one of the biggest questions heading into tonight’s game was about Giannis Antetokounmpo’s availability. Fans can breathe easy — Giannis is good to go. He’s officially off the injury report after dealing with some discomfort in his left knee earlier in the week. Though he appeared to aggravate that knee in a game against Indiana, he’s been cleared and ready to lead the Bucks on home court.
Also Read:- Stranger Things Finale Overshadowed by Bullying Allegations and Cast Reactions
- Alex Scott’s Surprise England Call-Up Marks a Bold Step by Tuchel
However, Milwaukee isn’t at full strength. Starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. remains sidelined after undergoing surgery for a meniscus tear in his right knee. He’s expected to miss at least four weeks as he recovers. Coach Doc Rivers admitted that losing Porter is a tough blow, especially since he’s been a crucial part of both their offense and defense. The team will have to rely on Ryan Rollins and Cole Anthony to fill in that gap for now.
To make matters worse, forward Taurean Prince is also out with a neck strain. Rivers said the team is still assessing the extent of the injury, but it doesn’t sound like a quick recovery. That means the Bucks will once again have to depend on their bench depth and adaptability — something Rivers has been emphasizing since the start of the season.
As for the Bulls, they’re also missing key players. Coby White, one of their top scorers, will sit out his eighth straight game with a strained right calf. Backup center Zach Collins is still nursing a hand fracture, and guard Ayo Dosunmu is questionable with a quad contusion.
The Bucks will likely start AJ Green, Gary Trent Jr., Ryan Rollins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Myles Turner. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. CT, and the game will be broadcast locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin. Milwaukee is entering as a 4.5-point favorite, with the over/under at 240.5 points — so it’s expected to be an exciting, high-scoring battle.
Beyond just a rivalry win, the Bucks are fighting to maintain their perfect 8-0 record in NBA Cup pool play since the tournament began. As defending NBA Cup champions, they’re aiming to keep that streak alive — and tonight’s clash with the Bulls could be another statement game to prove they still mean business.
Read More:
0 Comments