Jim Owczarski on Bucks string of wins and Giannis’ greatness
The Milwaukee Bucks’ recent play appears to show they’ve turned a corner. And where does Giannis rank in NBA history? Jim Owczarski discusses.
HOUSTON – The Milwaukee Bucks look to finish out a three-game road trip with a winning record when they take on the Houston Rockets at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Toyota Center.
The Bucks (25-10) are coming off a thrilling 125-121 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday while the Rockets (17-16) were blown out by Minnesota on Friday night.
Houston took a 89-73 lead over Milwaukee into the fourth quarter as the Bucks had missed 10 free throws and given up 11 points on 11 turnovers.
The Rockets led by as many as 21 before taking a 63-43 halftime lead on the Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo was 6-for-10 for 16 points but the rest of the team was 9-for-28.
Houston closed the first quarter on an 13-0 run to take a 29-18 lead into the second quarter. Antetokounmpo was 4-for-4 from the field for Milwaukee while the rest of the team was 3-for-14.
Is Giannis playing?
Yes. MVP candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the injury report and will play his 25th straight game. It’s his longest consecutive games played stretch since appearing in 31 in a row in the 2020-21 championship season.
Bucks injury report
- Jae Crowder, out (left adductor surgery)
Bucks starters
- Guards: Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley
- Forwards: Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Center: Brook Lopez
This will be the 10th straight game with these starters and 27th overall. The Bucks come into the game 19-7 when this unit starts together.
More: The Bucks’ Khris Middleton opens up on getting through his toughest year and bouncing back
Bucks vs. Rockets odds, over/under
The Bucks are a 6.5-point favorite over the Rockets, per BetMGM. The over/under for the game is 238.5 points.