Bucks vs Kings Preview: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Status in Doubt as Kings Seek to End Losing Streak
The NBA regular season continues tomorrow morning, with the Milwaukee Bucks hosting the Sacramento Kings.
During the offseason, the Bucks bought out Damian Lillard’s contract and signed Indiana Pacers’ interior powerhouse Myles Turner, as well as role players like Cole Anthony and Kofi Cockburn. Milwaukee has gotten off to a strong start this season, holding a 4-1 record, with their only loss coming against the Cleveland Cavaliers, and they are currently third in the Eastern Conference. In their last game, even without Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks pulled off an upset over the Golden State Warriors, showing strong overall form. In the first five games, the Bucks are averaging 121.8 points per game while allowing 115 points, demonstrating a balanced offense and defense.
Giannis is the undisputed core of the Bucks, averaging 36.3 points, 14 rebounds, and 7 assists per game, with a field goal percentage of 69.3% and an astonishing 57.1% from three-point range—almost unstoppable. Rolling has emerged as a breakout player this season, averaging 18.6 points and 5 assists per game. In the last game against the Warriors, he scored 32 points and has now set new career scoring highs in back-to-back games, currently in excellent form. Trent, Cole Anthony, AJ Green, Turner, and Kevin Porter Jr. are also averaging double figures, giving the Bucks multiple scoring options. Turner, the new addition, showed signs of regaining form in the last game, scoring 17 points with three three-pointers, which is good news for Milwaukee.
The Kings made few moves in the offseason, mainly adding guards Russell Westbrook and Dennis Schröder. In their first five games, Sacramento has struggled, recording a 1-4 record, ranking second-to-last in the Western Conference, just ahead of the winless Pelicans. The Kings are currently on a three-game losing streak, with morale relatively low. They are averaging only 110 points per game, ranking third-to-last in the West, reflecting a weak offense.
Zach LaVine is the team’s leading scorer, averaging 29.2 points and 3 rebounds per game, with four 30+ point games so far, showing strong individual form. DeRozan averages 19 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game, while Monk contributes 15.6 points and 2.4 assists per game. The Kings’ interior anchor, Domantas Sabonis, has had a slower start than last season, averaging 12.5 points, 13.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. Schröder and Westbrook also average double figures, but the Kings’ bench depth is limited.
In their last 10 head-to-head matchups, the Bucks have won 8, showing a clear advantage. In the upcoming matchup, both teams are dealing with injuries. For Milwaukee, Giannis’ participation is in doubt, and Kevin Porter Jr. remains out. For Sacramento, Monk is out for personal reasons, and Keegan Murray and Patrick Beverley are also unavailable.
