The Bucks are rolling. They have won their last four games in dominant fashion and climbed to the fourth spot in the East standings. And they would be hoping to extend that winning streak tonight as they face the Pelicans. However, beating the New Orleans franchise could prove to be a tougher challenge than expected now that Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the injury report!
Yes, the Greek Freak is probable to suit up. The reason? A lingering right knee issue that has been bothering him for quite some time. Thankfully, Giannis has not missed a game so far this month and unless there is a major setback before tip-off, he is likely to keep that streak alive despite the injury concerns.
Obviously, his availability would give a massive boost to the team because he is having an MVP-caliber season, averaging 31.5 points and twelve rebounds. And having him in the lineup makes the Bucks a completely different team.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Even his running mate Khris Middleton is listed as probable for tonight. Well, he has been in and out of the lineup since returning from his dual ankle surgeries. But he has been available for three straight games and is likely to make it four tonight.
Sure enough, Middleton’s performance has taken a hit since the medical procedure as his averages have dropped to 12.6 points and less than four rebounds. But it’s far better than not having him on the court at all. Holding a similar status to the two stars is MarJon Beauchamp because of an illness. Meanwhile, AJ Green is surely out for the game because of a quadriceps injury. But these setbacks will not matter much if Giannis and Middleton suit up.
Bucks and Pelicans’ Depth Chart
With Antetokounmpo probable, this is what the Bucks’ depth chart looks like:
Position | Starters | 2nd | 3rd |
PG | Damian Lillard | Ryan Rollins | Delon Wright |
SG | Andre Jackson Jr. | Gary Trent Jr. | Pat Connaughton |
SF | Taurean Prince | Khris Middleton (P) | Chris Livingston |
PF | Giannis Antetokounmpo (P) | Bobby Portis | Stanley Umude |
C | Brook Lopez | MarJon Beauchamp (P) | Liam Robbins |
Well, their starting lineup is likely to remain the same as the last game because why fix it if it ain’t broke. They have been dominant in the last four games and Doc Rivers is unlikely to make any changes to the winning formula.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Meanwhile, this is what the Pelicans’ depth chart looks like:
Position | Starters | 2nd | 3rd |
PG | Dejounte Murray (P) | Jose Alvarado | Brandon Boston Jr. |
SG | CJ McCollum | Jordan Hawkins | Antonio Reeves |
SF | Trey Murphy III | Javonte Green | Jamal Cain |
PF | Zion Williamson (Q) | Jeremiah Robinson-Earl | Keion Brooks Jr. |
C | Yves Missi (Q) | Daniel Theis | Karlo Matkovic |
Unfortunately, the New Orleans franchise is also dealing with multiple injuries. Obviously, the biggest concern is Zion Williamson, who is questionable due to an illness. He missed Monday’s Jazz clash because of the same issue. Even big man Yves Missi could miss his third straight game, as he too is questionable dealing with illness.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Adding to the misery, Brandon Ingram and Herb Jones remain out with their respective injuries. Dejounte Murray has also made it to the report with a probable status. The reason being right elbow bursitis. That means the Pels could miss some serious firepower tonight.
Sure enough, this will be both teams’ first meeting this season. Last year, they split the season series at one game a piece. Who do you think will gain the advantage tonight?
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.
Debate
Is Giannis risking too much by playing through his knee issues for the Bucks' success?
What’s your perspective on:
Is Giannis risking too much by playing through his knee issues for the Bucks' success?
Have an interesting take?