The Milwaukee Bucks recently raised a banner at home commemorating their NBA Cup tournament title. While adding a similar adornment to salute Khris Middleton for playing in his first set of back-to-back games this season might be a bit much, the Bucks are excited nonetheless.
Milwaukee Bucks:
- Khris Middleton enters Monday’s visit to the Chicago Bulls feeling progressively stronger after offseason surgery on both ankles sidelined him for the first 21 games this season. Saturday’s 112-101 home win against the Washington Wizards marked his first start, contributing 18 points, eight assists, and six rebounds in 24 minutes.
- The Bucks are also managing injuries to key players. Giannis Antetokounmpo (back spasms) and Damian Lillard (strained right calf) missed the Washington game. Lillard has missed the past two contests, but coach Doc Rivers mentioned that the star guard could return on Monday.
- In Antetokounmpo’s absence, Bobby Portis stepped up with a season-best 34 points, 10 rebounds, eight assists, and three steals against the Wizards.
- The winner of Monday’s game will secure at least a split of the season series. The teams will play again on Saturday in Chicago. Milwaukee avenged an 11-point home loss to the Bulls on Oct. 25 with a 122-106 win on Nov. 20, fueled by 41 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists from Antetokounmpo.
Chicago Bulls:
- The Bulls saw their season-high three-game winning streak snapped with a 123-98 loss to the visiting Boston Celtics on Saturday. Two nights after defeating the Celtics in Boston by nine points, the Bulls shot just 37.8 percent, including 34.1 percent from deep.
- Coby White has been a standout performer against the Bucks, scoring at least 20 points in four of his past five games against them.
- Milwaukee has won six of the past 10 meetings against the Bulls.
Key Players to Watch:
- Milwaukee Bucks: Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, Giannis Antetokounmpo (if available), Damian Lillard (if available)
- Chicago Bulls: Coby White, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan
With both teams dealing with injuries but having key players stepping up, this matchup will test their depth and resilience. Fans can expect an exciting game as the Bucks and Bulls strive to secure a win in this crucial encounter.
