After losing to the Indiana Pacers in one of the most devastating ways possible just a few days ago, the Milwaukee Bucks will take them on once again on Saturday.
These teams have plenty of history over the past two years, and even more fuel got added to the fire in the last meeting between the two sides, so there are bound to be more fireworks. Just how healthy will the Milwaukee Bucks be for this matchup? Let us break down the current injury report.
Bucks' injury report against Pacers
Out: Bobby Portis Jr. (League Suspension)
Questionable: Tyler Smith (Back Spasms)
Probable: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Left Calf Strain), Damian Lillard (Right Groin Soreness), Kevin Porter Jr. (Left Ankle Sprain)
It's no secret that Bobby Portis is still suspended, and Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are both constantly dealing with minor injuries, so these inclusions aren't too surprising. However, seeing that Kevin Porter Jr. is on the report is worth noting. Coming off a 22-point game, Porter has been a key piece for the Milwaukee Bucks lately, and having to play without him would be a blow.
With Porter listed as probable, he will likely suit up, so this ankle sprain seemingly isn't anything major, but with Milwaukee's injury luck over the past few years, nothing is ever set in stone. If Porter were to miss the game, Ryan Rollins would likely take his spot in the rotation for this one, and he's proven to be a capable backup in this league.
The Pacers will be on the second night of a back-to-back following a matchup with Philadelphia on Friday. Although they certainly won't be resting anyone, given how tight the Eastern Conference standings are at the moment, it will be worth monitoring to see what Pascal Siakam's designation is leading up to tip, as he was questionable prior to Friday's game with elbow bursitis.
In all likelihood, he will play, but this will be a situation worth keeping an eye on.
The Milwaukee Bucks currently have a 2-1 edge over the Pacers in the regular season series. Winning this next game will be crucial to avoid allowing Indiana to tie things up as the two franchises are nearly neck and neck in the standings. Simply put, Saturday's clash will be a vital game for both sides, and everyone needs all hands on deck.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.