The Bucks face an improved Pacers squad to conclude 2024
The Milwaukee Bucks and Indiana Pacers will do battle this afternoon as the year rounds to a close. This Tuesday matinee is the second game of the year between the two sides, with the Bucks winning 129-117 in the first game. Andrew Nembhard, who missed the early portion of the season due to injury, has given the Pacers a big lift of late. Additionally, Tyrese Haliburton, who really struggled to start the year, has averaged 19.1 points, 8.9 assists, and 3.9 rebounds on 37% shooting from three since December 3. Obviously, looming above this all is the infamous “ball gate” hullabaloo and the playoff series from last season.
Where We’re At
The Bucks are coming off a disappointing period where they were unable to close out multiple winnable games. They beat the Bulls without Dame and Giannis, but a fourth-quarter meltdown against the Nets deprived them of another win without the star duo. Finally, Dame returned to play the Bulls a second time (still visibly sick, though), but his 29 points were unable to get Milwaukee across the line in that one too.
The Pacers have lost to a few good teams of late, but are playing well overall, winners of seven of their last 10 games. Over their last three, they have played the Celtics twice (winning one of those games) and lost to the Thunder. Haliburton dropped 31 points on Boston to lead his team to a win at TD Garden, so he’ll be ready and raring to go today.
Injury Report
For Milwaukee, Giannis did practice yesterday, per The Athletic’s Eric Nehm, but is still listed as questionable (illness). Khris Middleton (bilateral ankle surgery) and AJ Green (right calf contusion) are both probable.
For Indiana, Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman are both out for the year (torn Achilles). Aaron Nesmith is also out, and Obi Toppin is questionable (both with left ankle sprains).
Player To Watch
Andre Jackson Jr. did a pretty good job at neutralising Tyrese Haliburton’s impact in the first game this season, holding the star guard to 6/14 shooting in 34 minutes (he did have nine assist to go with that, though). Jackson’s ability to provide resistance at the point of attack will go a long way to the Bucks winning this one.
How To Watch
FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin at 2:00 PM CST.
Playback Streaming
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