The Milwaukee Bucks and Chicago Bulls enter Sunday’s matchup at the United Center with several key players sidelined, raising questions about rotations and matchup dynamics. Tipoff is set for 3:30 p.m. ET in Chicago, Illinois.
Milwaukee will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is out with a right calf strain, and Taurean Prince, recovering from neck surgery. Alex Antetokounmpo and Cormac Ryan are inactive as two-way players in the G League, while Thanasis Antetokounmpo is listed as questionable with an illness.
Chicago faces significant absences, including Zach Collins and Noa Essengue, both recovering from surgery, as well as Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Jalen Smith, and Patrick Williams due to injuries ranging from patellofemoral pain to fractures and strains.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been a cornerstone for the Bucks, averaging 28.0 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists in 30 games this season. Myles Turner contributes 12.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per contest, while Kyle Kuzma averages 13.0 points and 4.9 rebounds, providing support in the frontcourt.
Chicago will rely on Josh Giddey, who posts 17.7 points and 8.4 assists per game, and Matas Buzelis, who contributes 15.3 points and 5.4 rebounds. Tre Jones adds 12.1 points and 2.8 assists as a primary facilitator in the backcourt.
Recent form favors Milwaukee, who won the first three matchups against Chicago this season, including a 131-115 victory on February 3.
The Bucks split their last two games, defeating Cleveland 118-116 before losing to the Knicks 98-127. The Bulls have lost consecutive contests, falling to Charlotte 99-131 and Portland 112-121.
Sunday’s contest may also impact playoff positioning, with Milwaukee holding the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference at 26-32 and Chicago sitting 12th at 24-36. Both teams face uphill battles to climb the standings, making every matchup critical down the stretch.
