It has been nearly one year since Tyrese Haliburton did the ‘Dame Time’ celebration after hitting the dagger three to eliminate the Bucks from the inaugural in-season tournament. Although Lillard took the imitation as a “sign of respect” he will surely be seeking redemption for the semi final loss tonight as the Pacers visit Milwaukee for a group stage encounter. However, neither side will be at complete strength for the rematch because several stars are dealing with injury concerns.

Obviously, the biggest name highlighting the report is Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is listed as probable with right patella tendinopathy. But he is likely to suit up for the crucial encounter despite the knee issue as he has only missed one game so far. Sure enough, the Bucks need him in the lineup as Giannis is their best player, averaging 32.1 points and over twelve rebounds so far.

Meanwhile, Khris Middleton will continue to remain out while fans eagerly await his season debut. Well, he is still recovering from the double ankle surgeries and although he has been medically cleared, he is still working to feel physically ready to play. Moreover, Ryan Rollins will also miss his fifth straight as his injury has been adjusted from a ‘left shoulder instability’ to a ‘dislocation.’ And Doc Rivers highlighted his two options, “One is to play and the other is to do surgery. And Ryan, at this point in his career, surgery would be very difficult for him. So, I think he’s going to try to give it a go — not today obviously — but soon.” So, he could remain sidelined for an extended period.

But the Bucks are not as unlucky as the Pacers in the health department. Their two big men, James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson are out for the season with a torn Achilles. Meanwhile, forward Aaron Nesmith has been ruled out until at least December with a left ankle injury. Andrew Nembhard is also likely to miss his eighth straight game as he is still recovering from left knee soreness.

Adding to the concerns, Ben Sheppard (oblique) and Jarace Walker (illness) are also questionable to suit up tonight. Well, the injury bug has hit the Pacers hard and they are 6-9 to start the season.

Bucks and Pacers’ Depth Chart

With Giannis on the injury report, this is what the Bucks’ depth chart looks like:

Obviously, they are unlikely to make any changes because they are on a two-game winning streak and aiming to extend it. However, a lot will depend on Giannis’ availability as his size could prove a major advantage amid the Pacers’ injury woes.

Meanwhile, this is what the Pacers’ depth chart looks like:

Well, their starting lineup is likely to remain the same because they do not have a lot of depth and cannot afford to make much adjustments. Obviously, its going be a difficult challenge to overcome as they seek their first group stage win in this year’s tournament. They lost to Miami in the first game last week. Moreover, the expectations are high because they were the finalists last year and went on a historic run.

On the other hand, the Bucks have already won their first group stage encounter. But tonight’s game remains crucial because they are only 6-9 so far and looking to turn things around. Moreover, a win tonight will complete their redemption arc from last year. Whose side are you on?