Giannis Antetokounmpo Returns as Bucks Face Off Against Rising Bulls
The Milwaukee Bucks are set to welcome back their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, after he has spent the last eight games sidelined due to a calf strain. On Saturday night at the United Center, Antetokounmpo went through his customary pre-game routine without any setbacks, prompting an upgrade from ‘questionable’ to available for the matchup. Head coach Doc Rivers has indicated that while Antetokounmpo is ready to take the court, a minutes restriction is likely to be in place.
The Chicago Bulls are also bolstered by the return of guard Josh Giddey, who was listed as ‘questionable’ due to an ankle sprain but has been cleared to play. As the season progresses, both teams find themselves in a critical position within the Eastern Conference, with potential play-in implications looming as they navigate through the final weeks.
Current Standings and Implications
At present, the Chicago Bulls hold a slight edge over the Milwaukee Bucks, sitting a couple of games ahead for third place in the Central Division. The Bulls rank 10th in the Eastern Conference, a familiar position for them in recent years. Meanwhile, the Bucks are grappling with an unusual underperformance, as they have not finished below .500 since the 2015-16 season. If they hope to avoid their first losing record in many years, they will need to rally during this ongoing five-game road trip.
After a defeat against the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, the Bucks are looking to rebound with three games scheduled over the next four nights, including a contest against the Charlotte Hornets on Monday. Conversely, the Bulls are on a high after executing an impressive 11-0 run to close out a 109-102 upset victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, marking their fifth consecutive win. This recent success has fueled their ambition to extend their streak while competing against a division rival in the midst of a six-game homestand.
Injury Report
Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Available – Right Calf Strain
Gary Trent Jr.: Out – Left Calf Contusion
Taurean Prince: Out – Neck Surgery Recovery
Alex Antetokounmpo: Out – G League (Two-way)
Bulls
Josh Giddey: Available – Left Ankle Sprain
Noa Essengue: Out – Left Shoulder Surgery
Lachlan Olbrich: Out – G League (Two-way)
Trentyn Flowers: Out – G League (Two-way)
Emmanuel Miller: Out – G League (Two-way)
Game Details and Broadcast Information
The Bucks (12-19) are set to clash with the Bulls (15-15) for the second time this season, both teams coming off back-to-back games. Antetokounmpo’s return marks a significant storyline for the league, while the Bulls’ quiet surge has caught attention as they aim to surpass the .500 mark for the first time since November 24.
In their previous encounter, the Bucks faced the Bulls in a Group C clash of the NBA Cup on November 7, where Antetokounmpo delivered a standout performance with 41 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists. The “Greek Freak” showcased his prowess, particularly in the fourth quarter, scoring 19 points to pull away from Chicago in a 126-110 victory.
The two teams are set for more matchups later in the season, with games scheduled at the Fiserv Forum on February 3 and another in Chicago on March 1. Historically, the Bucks have dominated the rivalry, winning 16 of the last 17 meetings from January 2018 to April 2022. However, the recent contests have been much more competitive, with Milwaukee claiming eight victories in the last 13 encounters.
Betting Lines
Spread: Bulls -2.5 (-105), Bucks +2.5 (-115)
Moneyline: Bulls -130, Bucks +110
Total: 232.5 (Over -115, Under -105)
Projected Starters
Bucks
F Kyle Kuzma
F Giannis Antetokounmpo
C Myles Turner
G Kevin Porter Jr.
G AJ Green
Bulls
F Isaac Okoro
F Matas Buzelis
C Nikola Vucevic
G Cody White
G Josh Giddey
In discussing the challenges facing his players, Bucks coach Doc Rivers commented on the turnover issues of Kevin Porter Jr., noting, “Scoot has a chance to be a terrific player, but he has to learn to move past his last mistake. He’s young, especially at that position, and there are growing pains that come with that…” Rivers emphasized the need for continued development and support to help Porter Jr. find his rhythm on the court.
As the Bucks and Bulls prepare to face off, both teams are keenly aware that every game counts as they vie for a better position in the crowded Eastern Conference landscape.
