The Milwaukee Bucks will host the Chicago Bulls, favored by 3.5 points, with a total points line set at 239.5. This NBA Cup matchup marks the second day of group play and serves as an important test for two Eastern Conference teams exceeding preseason expectations.
With a 6-1 record, the Bulls lead the conference despite missing shooting guard Coby White, who averaged 20.4 points last season but continues to recover from a calf injury. Point guard Josh Giddey is stepping up, leading Chicago in points and assists, and has recorded two triple-doubles. He is also the +320 favorite at FanDuel for the Most Improved Player award.
The Bucks entered the season with multiple uncertainties. They signed free agent center Myles Turner but face challenges at point guard following Damian Lillard’s season-ending injury. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s future remains a key storyline, with any struggles increasing speculation about his potential trade demand.
Milwaukee has started the season 5-3. Coach Doc Rivers has adjusted the offense to the absence of starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr., using Ryan Rollins as a fill-in while positioning sharpshooters Gary Trent Jr. and Green off the ball to maximize Antetokounmpo's dominance.
"Coach Doc Rivers deserves credit for optimizing his halfcourt offense and adjusting to starting point guard Kevin Porter Jr.’s injury."
The Bucks are averaging strong offensive efforts despite roster challenges.
Both teams have demonstrated resilience and adaptability early in the season, making this matchup a pivotal indicator of their potential trajectories.
This highly anticipated Bucks vs. Bulls game highlights two Eastern Conference contenders adjusting to key absences and exceeding expectations early in the NBA season.