NBA Preview: Milwaukee Bucks (30-24) vs. Washington Wizards (9-45)

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The Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Wizards are set to face off at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. This matchup features two teams with different trajectories this season, making it an intriguing game to watch.

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Milwaukee Bucks

  • 2024 Record: 29-24, 3rd in Eastern Conference
  • Key Players: Damian Lillard (G), Giannis Antetokounmpo (F), Bobby Portis (F), Brook Lopez (C), Kyle Kuzma (F)
  • Strengths: The Bucks have a dynamic offense led by Lillard and Antetokounmpo. Their power play has been effective, converting at a 23.4% rate.
  • Challenges: The Bucks have had some defensive lapses and have struggled to close out games. They are currently on a two-game losing streak.
  • Key Departures: None significant
  • Key Signings: None significant

Washington Wizards

  • 2024 Record: 9-45, 15th in Eastern Conference
  • Key Players: Jordan Poole (G), Bilal Coulibaly (F), Corey Kispert (F), Alex Sarr (C), Bub Carrington (G)
  • Strengths: The Wizards have shown flashes of potential with Poole and Coulibaly leading the scoring. Their power play has been solid, converting at a 21.6% rate.
  • Challenges: The Wizards have struggled defensively and have had difficulty maintaining leads. They are currently on a 11-game losing streak.
  • Key Departures: Kyle Kuzma (recently traded to the Bucks)
  • Key Signings: None significant

Match Details

  • Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
  • Time: 7:00 PM ET
  • Venue: Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C.
  • Broadcast: ESPN+, Monumental Sports Network

Team News and Lineups

  • Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a calf injury, with Bobby Portis expected to step up in his absence. Damian Lillard will start in goal.
  • Washington Wizards: The Wizards will be without Saddiq Bey due to a knee injury, with Bilal Coulibaly expected to take on a larger role. Jordan Poole will start in goal.

Key Matchups

  • Damian Lillard vs. Washington Wizards Defense: Lillard’s offensive prowess will be a major threat to the Wizards’ defense.
  • Washington Wizards’ Offense vs. Milwaukee Bucks Defense: The Wizards’ balanced attack will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Bucks’ defense.