The Milwaukee Bucks are set to welcome back star player Giannis Antetokounmpo after an eight-game absence due to a calf strain. The two-time MVP participated in his usual pre-game routine on Saturday night at the United Center, showing no signs of setbacks, which led to his upgrade from ‘questionable’ status.
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers confirmed that Antetokounmpo is ready to play, although a minutes restriction is likely. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls also reported that guard Josh Giddey is available to play after being listed as ‘questionable’ due to an ankle sprain.
As the NBA season progresses, both teams are in a tight race for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference. Currently, the Bulls lead the Bucks by a couple of games, ranking third in the Central Division and 10th in the Eastern Conference. This reflects the long-standing struggle of the Bulls to consistently reach the postseason, as they have often found themselves hovering around the same positioning in recent years.
The Bucks are not accustomed to being underperforming, having only finished outside the top-eight once during Antetokounmpo’s tenure. They are working hard to avoid a losing season for the first time since 2015-16. Following a recent defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies, the Bucks now continue their five-game road trip, facing the Bulls and aiming to rebound from their current slump.
The Bulls enter this matchup on a high, having secured a dramatic 109-102 victory against the Philadelphia 76ers, marking their fifth consecutive win. Chicago looks to capitalize on their momentum, striving for a season-best winning streak while hosting their division rival as part of a six-game homestand.
In terms of injuries, the Bucks have some players sidelined, including Gary Trent Jr. due to a left calf contusion, and Taurean Prince recovering from neck surgery. In contrast, the Bulls will be without Noa Essengue and several players currently assigned to the G League.
The two Central Division rivals face off at the United Center, with the Bucks holding a rich history against the Bulls, winning 16 out of 17 matchups from January 2018 to April 2022. Nevertheless, the matchup remains competitive, with Milwaukee winning eight of the last thirteen encounters.
With Antetokounmpo’s return, hopes are high for the Bucks to start climbing the standings again, while the Bulls aim to maintain their strong form. This game promises to be an exciting clash as the season progresses and team dynamics evolve.