Bucks Look to Build Momentum Against Struggling Wizards After Ending Skid
After finally snapping a frustrating seven-game losing streak, the Milwaukee Bucks are hoping to turn a corner. Their next test? A Washington Wizards team that’s sitting at the bottom of the NBA standings and still searching for answers.
Milwaukee’s 9-12 record isn’t where they expected to be at this point in the season, especially for a team with championship aspirations. But their Nov. 29 win over the Brooklyn Nets - one of the league’s worst teams - at least gave them a much-needed breather. Now they’re aiming to stack wins for the first time since late October, when they last notched back-to-back victories.
The opportunity is there. Washington enters this matchup at just 2-16, and the Bucks already handled them once this season - back on opening night in Milwaukee.
Giannis Trending Toward Playing
The big question ahead of tip-off: Is Giannis Antetokounmpo suiting up?
The answer, for now, is yes. He’s listed as probable as he continues to manage a left adductor strain, but he’s played in the Bucks’ last two games - albeit on a minutes restriction. He logged 28 minutes in a loss to the Knicks on Nov. 28 and followed that with just 19 minutes in the win over Brooklyn.
Even in limited action, Giannis makes a difference. His presence alone forces defenses to collapse, opening up opportunities for shooters and cutters alike. And with the Bucks still trying to find their rhythm, having their two-time MVP on the floor - even in bursts - is a major lift.
Bucks Injury Report and Probable Lineup
Milwaukee’s injury report includes a few key names:
- Taurean Prince remains out following neck surgery.
- Gary Trent Jr. is questionable with a right thumb sprain.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo is probable, still managing that left adductor strain.
Assuming no surprises, the Bucks are expected to roll out a starting five of AJ Green, Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Myles Turner.
It’s a group that blends youth and experience, but the chemistry is still very much a work in progress. The Bucks have shuffled lineups throughout the early part of the season, trying to find the right mix - especially with injuries forcing their hand. But against a rebuilding Wizards team, this unit should have a chance to settle in and build some confidence.
Middleton Faces Former Team Again
On the other side of the court, Khris Middleton will suit up for Washington - and he’s no stranger to the Bucks.
The veteran forward, who spent the bulk of his career in Milwaukee, has appeared in 14 of the Wizards’ 18 games this season, averaging 9.7 points on 47% shooting. His three-point shot hasn’t quite clicked yet (32.4%), and he’s still working his way into a rhythm after years of injury setbacks. But Middleton showed flashes of his old self in the season opener, dropping 23 points on 9-of-14 shooting - his best outing of the year so far.
When these teams met last February, Middleton had another solid showing with 12 points and even had a shot to tie the game late. He knows the Bucks well, and that familiarity could give Washington a spark - especially with so many of their young players sidelined.
Wizards Dealing with Key Injuries
Washington’s focus this season has clearly shifted toward development, but they’re missing some major pieces in that process:
- Alex Sarr, the No. 2 overall pick in 2024, is out with right adductor soreness.
- Tre Johnson, their 2025 first-rounder, is sidelined due to a left hip flexor strain.
- Corey Kispert, one of their top shooters, is also out with a right thumb fracture.
That’s a lot of firepower unavailable for a team already struggling to compete. The Wizards are thin on experience, short on scoring, and trying to piece things together with a mix of veterans and unproven talent.
Game Info and Betting Lines
The game tips off at 6 p.m. CT from Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.
You can catch the action locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin, with Lisa Byington, Marques Johnson, and Stephen Watson on the call.
As for the betting lines, Milwaukee is an 8.5-point favorite, and the over/under is set at 231.5 points, according to BetMGM.
What to Watch
This is a classic “take care of business” game for Milwaukee. They’ve already beaten Washington once, and the Wizards are down several key players. But for a Bucks team still trying to find its footing, nothing can be taken for granted.
Look for Giannis to continue ramping up - even in limited minutes - and for the Bucks to try and establish some continuity on both ends. If they can get out in transition, hit open threes, and avoid the defensive lapses that have plagued them during their skid, this could be the start of something better.
After all, every winning streak starts with two.