The Milwaukee Bucks and Toronto Raptors have already sealed their number one and number two seed in the Eastern Conference. This top of the table clash, which could also be a possible preview of the Eastern Conference Finals, is taking place on August 9. The Toronto Raptors had beaten the Bucks four times in a stretch of seven days in the Eastern Conference Finals last season. This was a season that concluded with the Raptors taking the NBA Championship home.
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Since the season resumed in the Orlando Bubble, the Bucks have suffered enough losses. They still clinched the number one seed because of their outstanding performance before the bubble. However, the Raptors only had their first loss after the season restart this Friday against the Boston Celtics. But they quickly bounced back after winning over the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday.
Milwaukee Bucks lineup prediction and injury report
It is certain that the offense of the Bucks has been great so far but it is the defense that needs strengthening. Without a doubt, Giannis Antetokoumpo is the best player on the team. He has been shortlisted for the MVP award and is also the contender for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year. Giannis’ partnership with Khris Middleton is the biggest backbone for the team.
However, Giannis was at first listed as probable because of toothache but is definitely listed as out now. He has to undergo oral surgery due to which he will not be playing this Monday. This could be problematic for the Bucks as they will be missing their key playmaker.
With this in mind, the likely lineup would be Brook Lopez, Pat Connaughton, Khris Middelton, Wesley Matthews, and Eric Bledsoe.
Luckily for the Bucks, they will be facing two struggling teams before the playoffs begin- Washington Wizards on Tuesday and Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday.
Toronto Raptors lineup prediction and injury report
The Raptors are 4-1 after the season restart and are looking to continue their streak against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Raptors have established themselves as one of the strongest teams in the East so far. Key players like Kyle Lowry and Pascal Siakam have really risen to the occasion for the team.
Pascal’s shooting prowess will definitely pose a threat to the Bucks. He has averaged 23 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Patrick McCaw has been ruled out for the match because of an injury in his left knee.
The lineup prediction would be Kyle Lowry, Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol, Fred VanVleet, and OG Anunoby.
Even though the chances of the Bucks winning is slightly higher, the Raptors have the capability of an upset.
SOURCE: NBA
