The Milwaukee Bucks are gearing up against the Toronto Raptors for a game with high stakes and an uncertain lineup. The Milwaukee Bucks are currently sitting fifth in the Eastern Conference with a 17-16 record. In contrast, the Raptors have been struggling this season with an 8-27 record, sitting at the 13th spot in the Eastern Conference. Entering the game, a key question hangs over the Bucks is whether Khris Middleton is available to play or not. Let’s dive into the latest injury updates and have a look at the depth charts to see how these could shape the upcoming matchup.

The Bucks are facing injury concerns that could have a significant impact on their game plan. The biggest headline is Khris Middleton, who’s still battling that troublesome ankle tendinitis. He is listed as day-to-day for tonight against Toronto. Khris had an offseason surgery on both ankles and made his season debut Dec. 6 in the game against the Boston Celtics, after missing his first 21 games with the team. Over the course of 12 games, he has averaged 12.7 points with 5.0 assists and 4.4 rebounds.

Joining Khris are Giannis Antetokounmpo and Andre Jackson Jr. who are also listed as questionable due to a knee issue and illness. On the other hand, the Raptors would be missing their forward RJ Barrett who is sidelined due to illness. He has been the standout player for the Raptors, averaging 23.4 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game.

Can the Milwaukee Bucks find a way to win without Khris Middleton?

The Milwaukee Bucks enter this matchup with a 5-5 record over their last 10 games, showing a balanced yet inconsistent form. Their most recent performance was a narrow 105-102 loss, with Khris Middleton contributing just two points in 26 minutes. The Bucks have averaged 109.7 points per game during this stretch, but they have struggled to defend consistently, allowing opponents to score an average of 108.4 points. The team now hopes for Giannis Antetokounmpo’s recovery, as he has been averaging 32.3 points and 11.6 rebounds per game. Giannis will be pivotal for the Bucks’ chances of securing a victory.

On the other hand, the Raptors have been in poor form, winning just one of their last 10 games. They are averaging 108.5 points per game, while their opponents have been putting up 122.5 points per game against them. Toronto has struggled defensively and in shooting, which has been a major factor in their disappointing season. In their last five games, they have failed to score over 100 points twice, and they will need a much-improved offensive performance to keep up with the high-scoring Bucks. The Raptors will depend on Jakob Poeltl and Scottie Barnes as both players have been steady contributors.

Depth Charts of both the teams

Toronto Raptors depth chart:

Milwaukee Bucks depth chart:

The Bucks are left to navigate a difficult matchup against the Raptors, who are desperate for a win. Thre Bucks will need to step up across the board, especially with their front-court’s potential absence. Given their recent form and depth issues, will Milwaukee be able to overcome these challenges and secure a bounce-back win against the struggling Raptors? Only time will tell.