1-6! That’s the record the Bucks started their season with, sowing the seeds of doubt in every fan’s mind. But they have somehow managed to turn things around recently. They are currently on a four-game winning streak. And their momentum will be put to the test tonight as they face their old rivals, the Miami Heat. Unfortunately, things don’t look to be in their favor as they could be missing multiple key players due to injury, including Giannis Antetokounmpo.
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Yes, The Greek Freak is listed as probable due to a left calf strain. Well, he has become a regular entry in the report this year as he has been dealing with a lingering knee injury. But the calf issue is a fresh problem that raises concerns for his team. Of course, the Bucks need Giannis healthy and available as he has been their best player, averaging 32.4 points and nearly twelve rebounds. Fortunately, he has not missed any games recently despite being on the injury report frequently, which means he could likely suit up tonight.
Meanwhile, Khris Middleton remains out as he is still recovering from his double ankle surgeries. Another key addition is Taurean Prince, who is questionable as he deal with an illness. That’s a massive blow for the team as Prince has been solid this season, averaging nearly nine points and shooting 53.1% from deep range. Young forward MarJon Beauchamp (hamstring) and rookie AJ Johnson (Achilles) are both probable, but their status is unlikely to have much impact as they are not a big part of Doc Rivers’ rotation.
Well, the Heat are doing much better in the health department as they only have two players on the report. Obviously, Terry Rozier is probable after missing two straight with an injured right foot. With his MRI returning clean, he could make a return tonight. Meanwhile, Dru Smith is questionable with a right knee bone bruise he suffered in Friday’s practice.
Bucks and Heat Depth Chart
With Giannis probable, this is what the Bucks’ depth chart looks like:
| Position | Starters | 2nd | 3rd |
| PG | Damian Lillard | Gary Trent Jr. | Delon Wright |
| SG | Andre Jackson Jr. | AJ Green | AJ Johnson (P) |
| SF | Taurean Prince (Q) | Pat Connaughton | MarJon Beauchamp (P) |
| PF | Giannis Antetokounmpo (P) | Bobby Portis | Stanley Umude |
| C | Brook Lopez | Tyler Smith | Liam Robbins |
Obviously, if all players remain available, Doc is unlikely to change his recent lineup as it has been producing great results for the team. But a lot will depend on Giannis’ final status.
On the other hand, this is what Miami’s depth chart looks like:
| Position | Starters | 2nd | 3rd |
| PG | Terry Rozier (P) | Alec Burks | Josh Richardson |
| SG | Tyler Herro | Duncan Robinson | Pelle Larsson |
| SF | Jimmy Butler | Jaime Jaquez Jr. | Keshad Johnson |
| PF | Haywood Highsmith | Nikola Jovic | Kel’el Ware |
| C | Bam Adebayo | Kevin Love | Thomas Bryant |
In case Rozier returns, he is likely to take back his role as a starter. Sure enough, he has been in great form this season, averaging nearly thirteen points. But if he remains out, Erik Spoelstra is also likely to stay with the lineup he used against the Mavs.
The Bucks are undefeated in the NBA Cup group stage so far with two wins and the Heat has split their two games. Moreover, both teams will be looking to one-up each other as they have developed a rivalry in recent years. In the last four years, they have met in the first round of the playoffs twice and are tied at one series apiece. So, it will be an interesting battle tonight.