Bucks Face Uphill Battle in Atlanta
The Milwaukee Bucks are in a tough spot as they gear up to face the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. With three consecutive losses and dropping seven of their last eight, the Bucks find themselves on the brink of missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade.
Playoff Hopes Slim
While not officially out of the race for the 10th and final play-in spot in the Eastern Conference, the Bucks (27-38) trail the Charlotte Hornets (34-33) by seven wins. With just 17 games left, they need a near-miraculous 14-3 run to finish the season at .500. Their best stretch this season was an 8-2 run from February 3-25, and they last saw a winning record on November 17.
This season could mark the end of Milwaukee's impressive playoff streak, which has lasted since the 2015-16 season. It’s been the second-longest active streak in the NBA, trailing only Boston.
Giannis' Status in Question
The big question for the Bucks is whether their superstar, Giannis Antetokounmpo, will play. He’s currently questionable due to ongoing management of a right calf injury.
Since returning from a nearly six-week absence, Giannis has been on a minute restriction and has avoided back-to-back games. This makes it uncertain whether he’ll suit up against the Hawks or save himself for the home game against Indiana.
Bucks' Injury Report
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: Questionable (right calf)
- Kevin Porter Jr.: Questionable (right knee)
- Ousmane Dieng: Questionable (illness)
Probable Starting Lineup
- Guard: Kevin Porter Jr.
- Forwards: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kyle Kuzma, Ousmane Dieng
- Center: Myles Turner
Afternoon Struggles
The Bucks have had a particularly hard time with afternoon games, holding a 1-7 record and being outscored by 136 points in these matchups. Their recent afternoon losses have been especially rough, with significant defeats against teams like Brooklyn, Boston, Toronto, and Chicago.
Game Details
- Tip-off: 2 p.m. CT
- Broadcast: FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin
- Commentators: Lisa Byington, Marques Johnson, Stephen Watson
Betting Odds
Atlanta is favored by 9.5 points, with the over/under set at 229.5 points, according to BetMGM.
As the Bucks head into this crucial game, fans are left hoping for a turnaround that could reignite their playoff aspirations. Whether Giannis takes the court or not, Milwaukee needs to find a spark to keep their postseason dreams alive.