In a season full of ugly losses, the Bucks added another one on Thursday, in a 32-point loss to the Utah Jazz. They’ll look to put it in the rear-view mirror, as they have a date with the Phoenix Suns in the second game of their West Coast trip. These former NBA Finals opponents already duked it out in Milwaukee about two weeks ago, with Phoenix coming out on top 129-114, despite 33 points from Kyle Kuzma.
Where We’re At
The Bucks’ vibes keep worsening as the end of the season draws near. Beyond losing by 20+ points
for the seventh time in the last 12 games—against a shamelessly tanking team, no less—there’s been some concerning news coming out around the team the last couple of days. The first news that came through—via Eric Nehm of The Athletic—was that Giannis and the Bucks are in disagreement over whether he should return before the regular season ends, as the two-time MVP sits out with his fourth lower-body injury of the season. Then, in an interview with ESPN’s Romona Shelburne, Governor Wes Edens said that the Bucks will trade Giannis if he opts not to sign an extension this coming October. While not a bombshell, as Van wrote, it’s not the most encouraging news either. One of the lone bright spots has been the play of Ryan Rollins, who’s been averaging 14.7 PPG, 6.3 APG, 4.4 RPG, and is shooting 47.7% from the field and 38.7% from three in the last 12 games.
The Suns have been one of the league’s surprise teams this season, and are firmly in the playoff chase as the seven seed in the Western Conference. That said, despite being eight games over .500, they’ve been in a bit of a rut lately, losing their last four games—all to other playoff teams. The Suns played well against the two-seeded San Antonio Spurs, taking them down to the buzzer, before Victor Wembanyama called game. Collin Gillespie led the Suns with 24 points while hitting six threes and dishing out six assists.
Injury Report
Giannis (knee) is out, while Kevin Porter Jr. (knee) and Gary Harris (groin) are questionable.
The Bucks will miss out on going up against Amir Coffey (ankle) after shipping him out to the desert, as he’s listed as out. Dillon Brooks (hand), Haywood Highsmith (knee injury management), and Mark Williams (foot) will also miss. Grayson Allen (knee) is listed as questionable, while Royce O’Neale (knee) is doubtful.
Player to Watch
Let’s keep it with Rollins. Although there obviously wasn’t much good to take away from the shellacking Milwaukee took against Utah, Rylo led them in scoring with 15 points, five assists, and went 50% from the field. If the Bucks can take anything from this season, seeing Rollins come away with the Most Improved Player award would be awesome. He’s got a bit of a mountain to climb against some of the other contenders, but a good end to the year may swing some votes his way.
How to Watch
Watch on NBA TV or FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin at 9:00 p.m. CDT.
