Milwaukee Bucks vs. New York Knicks Preview: Measuring-stick game

Milwaukee Bucks v New York Knicks — Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images

Today will indicate if Milwaukee has really turned a corner

The Milwaukee Bucks take on the New York Knicks this afternoon in a true measuring-stick game. The two teams played in early November, and the Bucks were embarrassed from the jump. Yes, it was the second night of a back-to-back, but Milwaukee was not focused whatsoever on either end. With their recent uptick in form, though, a win today against the struggling Knicks could send a real message.

Where We’re At

The Bucks have righted the ship and won their last three games against the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs, and Orlando Magic. The illness that Dame and Giannis were dealing with in late December seemed to really impact them on both sides of the ball since returning, but improved play from both of those guys has really powered the resurgence. The Magic game, in particular, was a true dogfight; to come out on top in that one showed what this team is capable of.

After an extended period of basically not losing, the Knicks have hit a mid-season slide. They have lost four of five to the Oklahoma City Thunder (twice), Chicago Bulls, and Orlando Magic. During this span, the Knicks rank 23^rd on offence and 27^th on defence. Notably, their most recent game recap was titled: “Thunder 126, Knicks 101: ‘It’s hard to ignore that our key guys look tired af.’”

Injury Report

For Milwaukee, the big three’s injury report designation is the same as last game. Giannis (right patella tendinopathy), Dame (left calf contusion), and Khris (bilateral ankle surgery management) are all probable. The only change is that Gary Trent Jr. is listed as questionable (left hip flexor strain).

For New York, Miles McBride is probable (left hamstring strain), and Mitchell Robinson is out (left ankle surgery).

Player To Watch

In the last matchup between these two teams, Karl-Anthony Towns completely broke open the game with his ability to stretch the floor, notching a game-high 32 points on 4/8 from deep. Doc admitted postgame that it was a mistake to guard Towns with Brook Lopez, but that he did so because he didn’t want to tire Giannis out with the assignment. Expect Antetokounmpo to take that assignment from the jump this time around.

How To Watch

FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin at 2:00 p.m. CST.

Playback Streaming

We are streaming the game live on our Playback and YouTube channels. Read on to find out how you can get NBA League Pass on us!

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