Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined as Miami Heat stars prepare for pivotal matchup
The Milwaukee Bucks have confirmed that forward Giannis Antetokounmpo will not participate in tonight’s contest against the Miami Heat, nursing a hip adductor strain. This marks his third consecutive game on the sidelines. Meanwhile, the Heat are gearing up for the challenge with several key players expected to return. Forwards Andrew Wiggins, Nikola Jović, Dru Smith, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. are all listed as probable for the game, which could significantly alter the dynamics on the court.
Injury Updates for the Heat
Wiggins has been absent for the last three games due to a hip flexor strain, while Jović has missed four games following a right hip impingement. Jaquez has been dealing with tightness in his hip but has remained active, as has Smith. The latest injury report for Miami includes:
Norman Powell: Probable – Groin
Andrew Wiggins: Probable – Hip
Nikola Jović: Probable – Hip
Jaime Jaquez Jr.: Probable – Hip
Dru Smith: Probable – Hip
Terry Rozier: Out – Not with team
Kasparas Jakučionis: Out – G League
Vladislav Goldin: Out – G League
Bucks’ Injury Report
For the Bucks, the absence of Antetokounmpo presents a significant challenge, compounded by the following injuries:
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Out – Adductor
Kevin Porter Jr.: Out – Knee
Taurean Prince: Out – Neck
Alex Antetokounmpo: Out – G League
Game Preview and Context
Tonight’s game, set for November 26 at 7:30 p.m. EST at Kaseya Center in Miami, marks the first of three regular season encounters between the two teams. Additionally, it is the fourth and final NBA Cup Group Play game for Miami. Last season, Milwaukee dominated their matchups, winning all four contests. However, historically, the Heat hold a slight edge over the Bucks with a 76-57 all-time record, including an impressive 41-24 at home.
Projected Starters
Miami Heat
G Davion Mitchell
G Tyler Herro
C Kel’el Ware
F Norman Powell
F Bam Adebayo
Milwaukee Bucks
G Ryan Rollins
G AJ Green
C Myles Turner
F Kyle Kuzma
F Bobby Portis
Betting Lines
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the betting lines for the matchup are as follows:
Spread: Heat -9 (-110), Bucks +9 (-110)
Moneyline: Heat -360, Bucks +290
Total Points Scored: 238.5 (over -114, under -106)
Quotes from Heat’s Head Coach
In reflecting on the team’s recent performance, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra shared insights into their resilience. “This was kind of more of a throwback game. There were times where we were able to get to our game, but there were times where they got us in the mud. But we still found a way to get the win, and I think that’s a growth opportunity for our team to prove that we can do that.”
Looking Ahead
As the Miami Heat prepare to take on the Bucks, all eyes will be on how they adapt without their star player. With various players returning from injury, tonight’s game promises to be a crucial test for both teams as they navigate the early season.
