The Milwaukee Bucks started the second half of the season on a positive note. After suffering back-to-back losses entering the break, they bounced back with a crucial 112-107 win over the West-leading Minnesota Timberwolves. The Bucks will face a follow-up test later in the afternoon when they meet their Eastern Conference rivals, the Philadelphia 76ers, at the Wells Fargo Center.

Although the Sixers will be without their big man, Joel Embiid, the Bucks defense will have a tough time against Tyrese Maxey and Co. So, will Giannis Antetokounmpo lace up tonight to help the team cruise past Philadelphia?

Giannis Antetokounmpo is off the injury report

Despite being listed as questionable before the matchup due to a right knee patellar tendinitis, the Greek Freak lit up the scoreboards with his 33 points and 13 rebounds during their recent win. There have been no further updates about his injury yet. Therefore, he is likely to suit up tonight as well, since Sunday’s game is not a back-to-back. However, Khris Middleton will remain out due to a sprained ankle.

The Bucks will need all the cards in the deck if they are to pull off another win. The Philadelphia 76ers are riding high with a 104-97 win after handing the Cleveland Cavaliers their second consecutive loss. Moreover, the 76ers will be raring to even the season series after previously losing to Milwaukee by a single point (118-117) on Oct. 26. Can the Bucks hold off Philly’s offense?

Can the Milwaukee Bucks maintain their momentum?

The Milwaukee Bucks leaking defense has been the bane of their existence since the start of the season. Their defensive rating of 115.7 is a far cry from the 110.9 points per 100 possessions they gave up just a season ago. To compensate for losing an elite perimeter defensive player in Jrue Holiday, they roped in Patrick Beverly at the trade deadline. However, whether this mid-season acquisition will alleviate their defensive struggles is yet to be seen.

Moreover, Buck’s new head coach, Doc Rivers, had an immediate impact on their defense. Under Adrian Griffin’s tenure, the team was allowing an average of 120.5 points per game, ranking 22nd in the league. Since Rivers took over, they have improved to 17th in the league. However, their defense will be put to the test when they meet the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday afternoon. The Sixers are one of the best offensive teams in the league, even with reigning MVP Joel Embiid. Therefore, they are going to give the Bucks a run for their money tonight.

Top Stories

Caitlin Clark, JuJu Watkins Announce Injury Update After Months of Battle

Lakers’ Gabe Vincent Dishes on LeBron James, Luka Doncic’s Sacrifices, Role on the Team and More (Exclusive)

Arrest For Shaquille O’Neal’s Stolen Range Rover Made But More Bad News Awaits

WNBA Fans Offer No Filter After Dearica Hamby, Aces Announce Final Decision Over Pregnancy Discrimination Lawsuit

Caitlin Clark Issues Urgent Message Over CBA Negotiations During Team USA Camp

Read More: Giannis Antetokounmpo May Finally Witness “Failure”, Courtesy of Damian Lillard