The Milwaukee Bucks are set to face the New Orleans Pelicans tonight, April 6, 2025, in a game that holds significant implications for the Eastern Conference playoff picture. However, the biggest question on everyone’s mind is: Will Giannis Antetokounmpo play? A recent shoulder injury has cast doubt over his availability, leaving fans and analysts alike on tenterhooks. This game is crucial for the Bucks as they strive to solidify their position and potentially avoid a first-round matchup against a tough opponent like the New York Knicks.
This article will delve into Giannis’s injury status, the potential starting lineup for the Bucks, the latest odds, and a comprehensive overview of the Eastern Conference playoff standings. Whether you’re a die-hard Bucks fan or a casual NBA follower, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need before tip-off.
We’ll explore the implications of Giannis’s potential absence, examine the Pelicans’ injury woes, and break down the key matchups to watch. With playoff positioning on the line, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter, regardless of who takes the court.
Is Giannis Playing Tonight?
The biggest concern for Bucks fans revolves around the availability of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Unfortunately, the latest reports indicate that Giannis is doubtful for tonight’s game against the Pelicans due to pain in his left shoulder. This is a significant blow for Milwaukee, as Giannis has been playing at an MVP level, averaging a triple-double over his last five games. He has been managing the pain since late March, wearing a sleeve over his shoulder during the game against the Heat.
The team will likely monitor his condition closely leading up to game time, but his status as doubtful suggests that he may be rested to prevent further aggravation of the injury. Without Giannis, the Bucks will need other players to step up and fill the void in scoring and rebounding.
Bucks vs. Pelicans: A Tale of Two Teams
The Milwaukee Bucks (43-34) are looking to extend their winning streak to four games as they face a New Orleans Pelicans (21-56) team that has been ravaged by injuries. The Pelicans have already been eliminated from playoff contention and are missing several key players, including Zion Williamson, Dejounte Murray, CJ McCollum, and Trey Murphy III. This game was originally scheduled for January 22 but was postponed due to a record snowfall in New Orleans.
The Bucks are currently battling with the Detroit Pistons for the No. 5 seed in the Eastern Conference. With the standings so close, every game is crucial. The Pelicans, on the other hand, are vying for a better position in the draft lottery.
Playoff Picture: Bucks Aim to Secure No. 5 Seed
The race for playoff positioning in the Eastern Conference is heating up, with the Bucks and Pistons locked in a tight battle for the No. 5 and 6 seeds. While neither seed guarantees home-court advantage, the potential matchups in the first round could significantly impact Milwaukee’s chances of advancing.
The Bucks have a 3-1 record against the Indiana Pacers, who currently hold the No. 4 seed. However, they are 0-3 against the New York Knicks, who are the No. 3 seed. Avoiding the Knicks in the first round could be a major advantage for Milwaukee.
Game Time and How to Watch
The Bucks vs. Pelicans game is scheduled to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET. Local viewers can watch the game on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin, with Lisa Byington, Marques Johnson, and Melanie Ricks providing commentary.
Bucks Injury Report and Probable Starters
Here’s a look at the latest injury report for the Bucks:
- Bobby Portis Jr., out (league suspension)
- Jericho Sims, out (right thumb surgery)
- Damian Lillard, out (right calf deep vein thrombosis)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo, doubtful (left shoulder tendinopathy)
- Pat Connaughton, questionable (right ankle sprain)
With several players sidelined, here’s a possible starting lineup for the Bucks:
- Guards: Ryan Rollins, Gary Trent Jr.
- Forwards: Kyle Kuzma, Taurean Prince
- Center: Brook Lopez
Bucks vs. Pelicans Odds
According to BetMGM, the Milwaukee Bucks are an 8.5-point favorite over the New Orleans Pelicans. The over/under is set at 221.5 points.
Eastern Conference Playoff Standings
Here’s a look at the current Eastern Conference standings:
- Cleveland (62-15)
- Boston (57-20)
- New York (49-28)
- Indiana (46-31)
- Milwaukee (43-34)
- Detroit (43-35)
- Orlando (38-40)
- Atlanta (36-41)
- Chicago (35-42)
- Miami (35-43)
Eastern Conference Playoff Bracket
This is what the playoff bracket looks like heading into Sunday’s games:
- No. 1 Cleveland vs. No. 8 Play-in winner
- No. 4 Indiana vs. No. 5 Milwaukee
- No. 2. Boston vs. No. 7 Play-in winner
- No. 3 New York vs. No. 6 Detroit
Final Thoughts on Bucks vs. Pelicans
Tonight’s game between the Milwaukee Bucks and the New Orleans Pelicans carries significant weight for the Bucks as they look to secure a favorable playoff position. With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s availability in doubt, the team will need other key players to step up and contribute.
The Pelicans, dealing with numerous injuries, will look to play spoiler and potentially improve their draft lottery odds. While the Bucks are favored to win, the uncertainty surrounding Giannis’s injury makes this game one to watch closely. The outcome could have a lasting impact on the Eastern Conference playoff landscape.
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