The Milwaukee Bucks aim to build on their early-season momentum as they host the Sacramento Kings today at Fiserv Forum. Milwaukee (4-1) is seeking its third consecutive victory, while the struggling Kings (1-4) hope to snap a three-game losing streak.
The Bucks will be bolstered by the return of star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is available after being questionable with left patellar tendinopathy. He missed the team’s win over the Golden State Warriors on October 30 after colliding with Mikal Bridges in a game against the New York Knicks two days earlier.
Ahead of the game, head coach Doc Rivers addressed the management of Antetokounmpo’s physical playing style. “Because of the way he plays and his size, you always have to be aware of everything,” Rivers said. “The guy gives you everything, his body to every game, so we manage it the best way we can.”
While Antetokounmpo returns, the Bucks’ backcourt has taken a significant hit. Starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. is scheduled for knee surgery after tearing the meniscus in his right knee during a recent workout. He is expected to be sidelined for about four weeks. The injury is a setback for Porter, who was just returning to court work after spraining his left ankle in the season opener.
“That was a tough one,” Rivers said of the injury. “It cuts down the ball handlers… It’s a blow for sure.”
Tip-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. With Antetokounmpo back, Milwaukee’s probable starting lineup features Gary Trent Jr., AJ Green, and Ryan Rollins in the backcourt, with Antetokounmpo at forward and Myles Turner at center.
The game will be broadcast locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin. According to BetMGM, Milwaukee is a 5.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 233.5 points.
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