Game Day Preview: Bucks vs. Hornets
The Milwaukee Bucks are set to face the Charlotte Hornets on Monday, December 29, at 6:00 p.m. CST. The game will take place at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. Fans can catch the action on FanDuel Sports Network in Wisconsin and the Southeast, with radio coverage available on AM 620/103.3 FM in Milwaukee and 92.7 FM The Fan in Charlotte.
Current Standings and Historical Context
This matchup marks the third of four regular-season encounters between the Bucks and the Hornets. Earlier in the season, the Bucks secured a victory in their first meeting, while the second tilt saw the Hornets take the win. Historically, the Bucks hold a slight edge, boasting a 76-65 record against the Hornets, including a solid 44-26 at home and a competitive 32-39 on the road.
Projected Starting Lineups
For the Bucks:
G Ryan Rollins
G Kevin Porter Jr.
C Myles Turner
F AJ Green
F Giannis Antetokounmpo
For the Hornets:
G LaMelo Ball
G Sion James
C Moussa Diabate
F Brandon Miller
F Miles Bridges
Betting Lines and Insights
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, the Bucks enter the game as 3.5-point favorites, with a moneyline of -152, while the Hornets sit at +128. The total points set for the game is 227.5, with the over at -112 and the under at -108.
Injury Updates
Injury reports reveal a few uncertainties for both teams. For the Bucks, Gary Trent Jr. is listed as questionable due to a calf issue, while Taurean Prince is ruled out with a neck injury. The Hornets also have their share of concerns, with Sion James listed as questionable due to illness, alongside several players out, including Kon Knueppel (ankle), Ryan Kalkbrenner (elbow), Mason Plumlee (groin), and Grant Williams (knee).
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Candid Reflections
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the star forward for the Bucks, recently opened up about his return to the court, sharing his feelings of rustiness and discomfort. “It felt good. I think everything I felt out there is understandable,” he said. “To be able to feel a little bit rusty? Yes. Not having my weight? Yes. Feeling uncomfortable? Yes. But, yeah, it doesn’t really matter.”
He emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “When I was available, when I was able to make plays for my teammates, I did. When I saw the ball going in, I felt good. When I was able to make, as I said, plays for my teammates and they were making plays, it felt good just being around my teammates and being out there with him.”
Looking Ahead
As the Bucks prepare to take on the Hornets, all eyes will be on Giannis and his ability to shake off any lingering rust. With both teams eager for a crucial win, the stage is set for an exciting showdown in Charlotte.
