The Milwaukee Bucks will host the Chicago Bulls as 3.5-point favorites, with the total points set at 239.5. This matchup is part of the NBA Cup's second day of group play and offers a key test between two Eastern Conference teams exceeding preseason expectations.
With a 6-1 record, the Bulls lead the conference despite missing shooting guard Coby White, who averaged 20.4 points last season. White is out due to a calf injury and has not played this year. Point guard Josh Giddey has stepped up, leading Chicago in points and assists while recording two triple-doubles. He is the +320 favorite at FanDuel for the Most Improved Player award.
The Bucks entered the season facing uncertainties, such as the addition of free agent center Myles Turner and an unsettled point guard position after Damian Lillard’s season-ending injury. Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future remains a hot topic, as any struggles could increase speculation about his potential trade demand.
Starting with a 5-3 record, Milwaukee’s coach Doc Rivers has adapted the offense well despite the injury to starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr. Ryan Rollins has taken over the point guard role, allowing sharpshooters like Gary Trent Jr. and Green to focus on spacing the floor around Antetokounmpo.
"Doc Rivers deserves credit for optimizing his halfcourt offense and adjusting to starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr.’s injury."
Milwaukee is averaging strong offensive production and aims to maintain momentum in this pivotal game.
This matchup highlights two unexpectedly strong Eastern Conference teams, with the Bulls overcoming injuries and the Bucks adapting to key absences to remain competitive.