Hopes were high coming into the season for the Milwaukee Bucks with Doc Rivers at the helm and Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard leading the charge. However, the ‘Cream City’ stumbled out of the gates, facing criticisms for defensive inconsistencies and offensive stagnation. The blame has largely been directed at Doc Rivers. But it seems like the Bucks are back to their winning ways.

Milwaukee has won three out of its last four games, the latest being their 101-100 win over the Rockets. As they play host to the Bulls tonight, their opponents, too, are coming off a 122-112 win over the 7th-seeded Pistons. As such, shall we take a look at the injury report?

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Chicago Bulls: Injury report

Key injuries have compounded the Milwaukee Bucks‘ struggles. Khris Middleton’s absence has hurt their wing depth. Moreover, Antetokounmpo’s ongoing kneecap issues, though manageable, have raised concerns about his durability as the season progresses. Considering both the conferences are equally competitive this year, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that Milwaukee’s margin for error is small.

The ‘Greek Freak’ remains listed as probable for Wednesday’s game because of right patella tendinopathy. While the NBA champ is expected to play through the injury, if he does sit out, Bobby Portis will probably find himself filling the role. The other two names are Ryan Rollins (shoulder) and Khris Middleton (ankle).

It will be the fourth consecutive game Rollins will miss because of left shoulder instability. And his timetable for a return is currently unknown. As for the latter, the Milwaukee forward has yet to make his debut. As with the former, there is no clear return timeline for Middleton, and in his absence, Andre Jackson and Taurean Prince will find themselves with increased roles in the rotation.

What about our opponents?

The ‘Windy City’ does not look too good on the injury front, either. For starters, Lonzo Ball struggled with a wrist injury after returning to the floor for the first time since January 2021. Last Friday, Coach Donovan, revealed Ball will need another week of rehabilitation to make a return to on-court activities.

As per K.C. Johnson of Chicago Sports Network, “Ball is having trouble catching passes without pain.” Moreover, it’s also reported that he has yet to participate in scrimmages. When he is cleared to participate in five-on-five activities, he will probably be limited to the action. The other names on the injury list are Patrick Williams and Adama Sanogo.

As he continues to deal with bilateral foot soreness, Williams has a ‘questionable’ tag on him. If the 23-year-old does sit out, players like Julian Philips, Matas Buzelis, and Torrey Craig better stay ready. As for Sanogo, he seems to be dealing with a knee injury.

Now that we know the status of key players, how about we move forward to the depth chart?

The Bucks depth chart

The Milwaukee Bucks depth chart reflects the challenges heading into the matchup scheduled to tip off at 7:30 PM ET at Fiserv Forum. As such, it’s an interesting mix of challenges and strengths. For one, with Damian Lillard at point guard, Delon Wright serves as his primary backup. However, the absence of Middleton and Rollins remains a point of contention as it leaves the ‘Brew City’ with limited depth in the backcourt and wing.

Antetokounmpo’s doubtful status creates a key question mark. If he plays, there is no doubt that his versatility will remain a cornerstone for Milwaukee’s system. And if it’s the opposite, Portis will have to sweat it out, with Prince also slotting in. The truth of the matter is that both teams have their fair share of challenges as they approach this Central Division clash.

If the Milwaukee Bucks can maintain their rhythm after their rocky start, Doc Rivers & Co. will probably get away with a win. After all, they are finding that momentum now. However, it is noteworthy that the Bulls have a better record on the road (5-4) than at home (1-5). At the same time, Milwaukee works well at home (4-3) than on the road (1-6).

Anyway, the outcome of this duel hinges on how well both teams manage their rotations. Undoubtedly, it’s going to be an intense matchup.