The Philadelphia 76ers put forth a gritty effort on Wednesday night, but ultimately fell to the Toronto Raptors, 121-112. After struggling through a dismal third quarter where they were outscored 44-26 and committed 21 turnovers over the course of the game, the Sixers’ comeback attempt in the fourth quarter wasn’t enough to secure a victory.
Now, as they wrap up a back-to-back, the Sixers will take on the Milwaukee Bucks, who currently hold a record of 8-7. Updating the injury report, on Wednesday, the Sixers were without key players including Joel Embiid, Kelly Oubre Jr., Paul George, and Adem Bona. George’s return could be anticipated against the Bucks, as coaches generally avoid playing him in both games of a back-to-back right after recovering from an injury.
This matchup presents a significant shift compared to earlier expectations, especially after news broke that Bucks’ star Giannis Antetokounmpo will be sidelined for 1-2 weeks due to a low-grade left groin strain. Giannis has had an impressive season so far, averaging 31.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, 6.8 assists, and 1.2 blocks per game, sustaining the best efficiency of his career with a 66.2 true shooting percentage. The Bucks, currently struggling to remain competitive and sitting at the 11th seed in the Eastern Conference, will have to find ways to cope without their key player.
In Giannis’s absence, Milwaukee will rely more heavily on Kyle Kuzma, new center Myles Turner, and emerging player Ryan Rollins, who has stepped up as the team’s second-leading scorer with an average of 17.4 points per game and shooting splits of 51.3% from the field, 46.3% from three-point range, and 77.4% from the free-throw line. Additionally, they will miss Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince due to ongoing injuries.
With Giannis out, the Sixers will find this contest a more favorable opportunity. The Bucks have shown a stark contrast in performance, with a +8.0 net rating when Giannis is on the court, plummeting to an alarming -13.0 without him. This indicates the significant impact he has on both ends of the floor.
The Sixers’ offensive players, including Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, and Quentin Grimes, are expected to take advantage of the open lanes, as the absence of Giannis reduces the rim protection for the Bucks. George’s potential return would also boost the team, providing much-needed support on the wing, especially with Oubre still sidelined.
The Sixers must focus on reducing their turnovers if they are to secure a win; controlling possessions will be crucial in this game. Another player to watch is Jared McCain, who scored his first points of the season during his brief appearance against the Raptors.
Playing on the road with fatigued legs is always a challenge, but the Sixers have a realistic chance to earn a win and build some momentum against a struggling Bucks team missing its star player.
The game is scheduled for Thursday, November 20, at 8:00 p.m. ET at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. Fans can tune in on NBC Sports Philadelphia and catch the radio broadcast on 97.5 The Fanatic.