Raptors Face Bucks on December 18 Gameday Showdown
The Toronto Raptors are set to clash with the Milwaukee Bucks on December 18 at Fiserv Forum. Following a recent victory over the Miami Heat, the Raptors aim to extend their winning streak to two games. Milwaukee faces a significant challenge as star player Giannis Antetokounmpo will be absent due to injury.
Raptors’ Performance Overview
The Raptors currently hold a record of 16 wins and 11 losses, placing them third in the Eastern Conference. Their offensive rating stands at 114.8, ranking 12th in the league, while their defensive rating is 112.6, which ranks 7th. This gives them a net rating of +2.2, positioning them 11th overall.
- Record: 16-11
- Eastern Conference Position: 3rd
- Offensive Rating: 114.8 (12th)
- Defensive Rating: 112.6 (7th)
- Net Rating: +2.2 (11th)
Toronto’s defense is expected to excel against the Bucks, who are struggling to generate offensive plays without their key player. If Toronto can maintain ball control and limit Milwaukee’s three-point shooting, they should secure a comfortable victory.
Bucks’ Outlook Without Antetokounmpo
Milwaukee, with a record of 11 wins and 16 losses, sits 11th in the Eastern Conference. Their offensive rating has dropped to 113.4, ranking 22nd, with a defensive rating of 117.0, also 22nd in the league. The absence of Antetokounmpo has a substantial impact; without him, their offensive rating falls dramatically from 126.02 to 107.36, the lowest in the NBA this season.
- Record: 11-16
- Eastern Conference Position: 11th
- Offensive Rating: 113.4 (22nd)
- Defensive Rating: 117.0 (22nd)
Despite their struggles, Ryan Rollins is quickly emerging as a player to watch for the Bucks. Averaging 17 points and six assists, he displays improved ball-handling skills and a reliable shot. Myles Turner may also contribute, though he relies on generated shots rather than creating them himself.
Game Details
The Raptors vs. Bucks game is scheduled for tip-off at 8:00 p.m. ET. Fans can tune in via Sportsnet and TSN Radio 1050.
Projected Starting Lineups
| Milwaukee Bucks | Toronto Raptors |
|---|---|
| PG: Kevin Porter Jr. | PG: Immanuel Quickley |
| SG: Ryan Rollins | SG: Ja’Kobe Walter |
| SF: Gary Trent Jr. | SF: Brandon Ingram |
| PF: Bobby Portis | PF: Scottie Barnes |
| C: Myles Turner | C: Jakob Poeltl |
Injury Report
- Toronto Raptors: RJ Barrett (Knee) – Out
- Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Antetokounmpo (Calf) – Out
- Kyle Kuzma (Illness) – Questionable
- Taurean Prince (Neck) – Out
- AJ Green (Shoulder) – Questionable
As the Raptors face the Bucks, the dynamics of this match-up will heavily depend on team performance without their star player. This game presents an opportunity for the Raptors to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference.
