The Milwaukee Bucks host the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night in a showdown at Fiserv Forum. The Spurs finally managed to snap their losing streak to open the weekend, only to suffer another loss last time out.
For their part, the Bucks have won four straight and six of their last seven games, moving closer to the top of the Eastern Conference. Both teams split wins in two meetings last season, but with this game in Milwaukee, the Bucks would be disappointed if they fail to put together a dominant performance.
Spurs Look to Improve Away Record
The Spurs return to the road after a difficult season so far, with only four wins and ranking 15th in the Western Conference.
Despite having young talent, they have struggled to find consistency. Getting the win against the Los Angeles Lakers was key to getting out of the long losing streak they were stuck in, although it didn't take long for them to get back to losing ways the next game.
They now face a series of away games, where they have a 2-9 record. Beating one of the best teams in the league seems to be a big challenge for this group.
After this game, two more road games await them and, without an upset on Tuesday, they could face another long losing streak.
One of the most confusing parts of San Antonio's season has been their struggles, despite not having any serious injury problems.
Charles Bassey, with a knee injury, is out for the season, and the recent addition of Victor Wembanyama, with an ankle injury, who will be absent for this game, is a concern.
The offense ranks 25th in field goal percentage and, considering they like to play at a fast pace, they have missed too many shots.
The absence of Wembanyama, with 19 points and 11 rebounds, will affect both ends and cause a ripple effect in terms of scoring success.
Although the Spurs have four other scorers in double digits, the concern also carries over to the defensive end.
Without Wembanyama, expect to struggle to capture rebounds, while a group that ranks at the bottom of most defensive categories will likely suffer continued problems on faceoffs.
Unless a scorer emerges from the bench, the difficulties could continue.
❌ WEMBY REJECTION ❌ pic.twitter.com/8ltuLEBKlQ
- San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) December 12, 2023
Bucks Continue to Dominate at Home
The Bucks started the season with mixed results, especially after making some key changes to their lineup in the offseason, though they finally seem to be in sync. They find themselves with one of the best records in the NBA and winning eight of their last ten games surely gives them confidence.
They have now played seven straight home games and the team should be happy to have that continuity intact every night. The Bucks have a 14-2 record at home this season and, considering they will be facing a notoriously struggling team on the road, they know this is a key opportunity.
The schedule continues to be kind to them after this game, which should help their momentum. The Bucks have three injuries to worry about as they head into this game, though none are devastating.
Milwaukee has found moderate success on the defensive end, but has developed an elite offensive strategy.
They rank second in the league in field goal percentage and fourth in three-point percentage. Add in their ability to get to the free throw line, and it should come as no surprise that they have continued to find success of late.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, with 31.4 points and 11 rebounds, will command his will in this game, and having Damian Lillard, with 25.8 points, in support gives this team one of the best pairings in the NBA.
With six double-digit scorers at their disposal, they also have an advantage in bench depth.
