The NBA regular season is set for an intense matchup as the Milwaukee Bucks visit the Cleveland Cavaliers tomorrow.
Last season, the Cavaliers had an impressive regular season, finishing with a 64–18 record, though they fell short in the Eastern Conference semifinals. During the offseason, Cleveland made several key roster upgrades, adding Lonzo Ball, Larry Nance Jr., and Thomas Bryant to strengthen their depth. In the season opener, the Cavs fell to the Knicks at home but bounced back in their second game with a road win over the Nets — their first victory of the season.
Star guard Donovan Mitchell has been in outstanding form, scoring 31 and 35 points in the first two games, including a spectacular 21-point quarter in one of them. With Darius Garland and Max Strus sidelined, Mitchell has shouldered the offensive load. Sam Merrill has been on fire from deep, hitting 11 three-pointers across two games and averaging 20.5 points per game. The frontcourt duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen are combining for 30.5 points and 13.5 rebounds per game. Larry Nance Jr. has made a solid impact off the bench, while Lonzo Ball has struggled to find rhythm, scoring just 5 points across two games and needing to regain his touch.
The Bucks, on the other hand, were eliminated by the Pacers in the first round of last season’s playoffs. The offseason saw significant changes — Damian Lillard departed, Myles Turner joined the roster, and the team re-signed Gary Trent Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., and others. The Bucks have started the new season strong, defeating both the Wizards and the Raptors to go 2–0.
Franchise cornerstone Giannis Antetokounmpo has been dominant, posting 37 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 assists against Washington, followed by 31 points, 20 rebounds, and 7 assists versus Toronto. He’s averaging 34 points, 17 rebounds, and 6 assists while shooting nearly 70% from the field — an incredibly efficient start. In addition, Trent Jr. is averaging 18.5 points, Cole Anthony adds 16, and Rollins, Kuzma, Porter Jr., and AJ Green are all scoring in double figures. Newcomer Turner is still adjusting to the system.
In their last 10 meetings, the Cavaliers have won 8, including five straight victories against Milwaukee — clearly holding the upper hand. Playing at home, the Cavs will undoubtedly aim to defend their court and secure a statement win.
Injury report: Garland and Strus remain out for the Cavaliers, while Hunter is listed as questionable. For the Bucks, Kevin Porter Jr. is ruled out, Kyle Kuzma is uncertain to play, and Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to be available.
