The reigning NBA Cup Champions don’t have things exactly going in their favor. The Milwaukee Bucks have had a 2-3 run since their In-Season Tournament success. Notably, they suffered a few embarrassing defeats in the stretch, too. However, they have the opportunity to run it back all over again, ending the year on a positive note. And, probably carry it forward following that. But, the Wisconsin side has a growing concern involving their centerpiece, Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The Greek-Nigerian superstar hasn’t played the last three games, citing two different reasons. He missed the first game after the blowout loss against the Cavs with a back spasm. It instantly triggered an alarming situation in Wisconsin, as it was something that troubled the superstar in the past. Luckily, the back trouble had subsided with just one game and he missed the other two games, citing a non-COVID illness.

Unfortunately, the illness doesn’t seem to have subsided yet, as the team listed him out for the New Year’s Eve game against the Pacers. This is something plaguing the league over the last few weeks. Notably, LeBron James missed his last game, dealing with an illness and he is Questionable to play the New Year’s Eve game too.

Apart from Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks have two other players in the report too. Firstly, the ace starting shooter, Khris Middleton. The 33-year-old power forward, who had a delayed start to the season, has yet another block on his road. The team listed him in the Probable category, citing an ankle injury. Following Middleton, the team also listed AJ Green in the Probable category, citing a right calf contusion.

Considering the Bucks’ troubling record since the NBA Cup, this is a shorthanded lineup to face the in-form Pacers, especially after they defeated the Celtics at TD Garden.

Giannis Antetokounmpo & Co’s Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

On December 20, Giannis Antetokounmpo, speaking to the reporters, said, “I believe that no matter where we end up in the East we have a chance to compete when we’re healthy. And that’s our No. 1 opponent the last couple of years. So, right now that’s the opponent I’m fighting, we’re fighting, it’s health.” 

So, it’s all about getting their player in full fitness before the playoff fever. Until then, it’s the Coach’s duty to keep the team afloat in the post-season contention.

On the other hand, the Indiana Pacers are in a fiery form. The Celtics ended their latest 5-game winning streak with a blowout win at TD Garden. But in the very next game, the Pacers had the opportunity to seek revenge on the same spot. Guess what? The team managed to upset the defending champs.

So, coming into New Year’s Eve, the Pacers will look to repeat their performance and the New Year on a positive note. Who do you think will win tomorrow? Let us know in the comments.