The Milwaukee Bucks are looking to snap a difficult five-game losing streak as they face off against the Miami Heat tonight at the Kaseya Center. With the Bucks struggling at 8-10, they have fallen out of the Eastern Conference playoff race. In contrast, the Heat are thriving, currently holding the No. 3 seed in the conference with a record of 12-6 and riding a five-game winning streak.
This matchup carries additional significance, being part of the NBA Cup pool play for East Group C. The Bucks currently lead the group with a 2-0 record, while the Heat stand at 1-1. A victory for Milwaukee would not only halt their losing slide but also allow them to clinch the group if the New York Knicks lose to the Charlotte Hornets.
Unfortunately for the Bucks, superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has been ruled out for the contest after starting the day with a questionable status due to a left adductor strain sustained during a game against Cleveland on November 17. Head coach Doc Rivers noted that while Giannis is making progress, he did not complete the morning shootaround. The team will also be without Taurean Prince and Kevin Porter Jr., both of whom are sidelined due to injuries. However, there was some positive news regarding Porter, as Rivers mentioned that he had a great workout and is close to returning.
For the Heat, the return of all-star guard Tyler Herro is a huge boost. After missing the first 17 games of the season due to ankle surgery, Herro made a strong comeback, scoring 24 points on 12-for-18 shooting in just 29 minutes during a recent victory over the Dallas Mavericks.
The NBA Cup, introduced this season, consists of all 30 teams divided into six groups for pool play, culminating in an elimination tournament. The Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers are the first two champions of this exciting new competition.
In terms of financial incentives, the winning team of the NBA Cup can earn $530,933, while the runner-up receives $212,373. The Bucks will tip-off at 6:30 p.m. CT, with the game broadcast locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin.
As the Bucks look for a turnaround, their performance in the NBA Cup could serve as a vital turning point in the season, providing an opportunity for growth and to regain their footing in the Eastern Conference race.