Bucks Face Tough Challenge as Pacers Seek Redemption
The landscape of the Central Division has shifted dramatically this season, with the Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers currently fighting to avoid the lottery rather than competing for playoff positioning. Traditionally, these two franchises have been at the top of their game, often vying for the division title. However, the current season has seen both teams struggling, with the stakes now centered around the play-in spots.
Injury Woes for Milwaukee
The Bucks enter their matchup against the Pacers missing their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is sidelined with a calf injury that has kept him out of action since December 3. His absence is a significant blow to Milwaukee’s chances, as they aim to avoid a deeper hole in the standings. Head coach Doc Rivers is keenly aware of the uphill battle his team faces without their former MVP.
Meanwhile, the Bucks welcomed back Kyle Kuzma, who returned from a brief illness, and he started in Sunday’s loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves alongside Myles Turner and Bobby Portis. AJ Green also rejoined the lineup after a three-game absence due to a shoulder sprain, but struggled to find his rhythm, shooting just 1-for-8 against Minnesota.
Pacers’ Struggles in the Face of Injuries
The Pacers, too, are grappling with injury challenges. They recently suffered a disappointing loss to the Boston Celtics, despite holding a commanding 20-point lead at one point. Indiana is missing key players, including star guard Tyrese Haliburton, who is out for the season. This has left head coach Rick Carlisle scrambling to adjust his rotation, further complicating their efforts on the court.
Anticipation Builds for Rematch in Indianapolis
The upcoming game on December 23 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse presents a pivotal moment for both teams. The Bucks (11-18) will face the Pacers (6-23) for the second time this season. This game offers Indiana fans a chance to express their feelings towards Myles Turner, who made headlines after leaving the Pacers to join Milwaukee. During their last encounter, a tight matchup that ended 117-115 in favor of the Bucks, Antetokounmpo’s buzzer-beater capped off a stellar performance, where he recorded 33 points and 13 rebounds.
As Turner prepares for another showdown, expectations are high for him to step up. Although he recorded five blocks in the last game, his offensive contribution was limited to just nine points. With more opportunities likely available, Turner, who has averaged 17 points over the last two games, will aim to capitalize on his new role in this critical rematch.
Head-to-Head History Favors the Bucks
The rivalry between the Bucks and Pacers has seen Milwaukee largely dominate in recent years, winning four of the last five matchups. The Pacers did manage to find success in the 2023-24 season, winning four out of five games against the Bucks. However, Indiana has struggled overall, holding a disappointing 8-21 record against Milwaukee since 2018. The Bucks have also proven formidable in Indianapolis, boasting a 9-5 record at Gainbridge Fieldhouse during that span.
Game Details and Betting Lines
Fans keen to catch the action can tune in on December 23 at 7:40 p.m. EST. The game will be available on FanDuel Sports Network for both teams, with radio coverage on WTMJ for the Bucks and 1070 The Fan for the Pacers.
As for the betting lines, the Bucks are favored by 1.5 points, with a moneyline set at -115 for Milwaukee and -105 for Indiana. The total points line is currently at 218.5.
Projected Starters
Bucks
F Kyle Kuzma
F Bobby Portis
C Myles Turner
G Kevin Porter Jr.
G AJ Green
Pacers
F Bennedict Mathurin
F Pascal Siakam
C Jay Huff
G Andrew Nembhard
G Ethan Thompson
Injury Report
Bucks
Giannis Antetokounmpo: Out – Right Calf Strain
Taurean Prince: Out – Neck Surgery Recovery
Alex Antetokounmpo: Out – G League (Two-way)
Pacers
T.J. McConnell: Questionable – Sore Left Knee
Tony Bradley: Questionable – Right Thumb Fracture
Isaiah Jackson: Questionable – Head
Johnny Furphy: Questionable – Left Ankle Sprain
Tyrese Haliburton: Out – Right Achilles Tendon Tear
Aaron Nesmith: Out – Left Knee MCL Sprain
Obi Toppin: Out – Right Foot Stress Fracture
Ben Sheppard: Out – Left Calf Strain
Coach’s Take on the Road Challenge
As the Bucks prepare to hit the road, Doc Rivers is straightforward about what it will take for his team to secure a much-needed victory: “Score more points than the other team. There’s no secret. I’m being smart.”
With both teams grappling with injuries and seeking to turn their seasons around, this matchup promises to be an intriguing contest in the ongoing saga of the Central Division.
