George Harris
Dec 17, 2023 - 09:15

Bucks vs Rockets: 3-game win streak showdown

Milwaukee Bucks aim to extend 3-game win streak against Houston Rockets. Antetokounmpo leads Bucks, Smith Jr. leads Rockets. Injuries may impact game.

The Milwaukee Bucks are set to take on the Houston Rockets in what promises to be an exciting matchup. Milwaukee, with a record of 18-7, is looking to extend their three-game win streak, while the Rockets, with a record of 13-9, are aiming to secure a victory on the road.

The Bucks have been dominant at home, boasting a 13-2 record in home games. Their prowess from beyond the arc is evident, as they rank sixth in the NBA for 3-pointers made per game, averaging 14.3 and shooting 38.4% from downtown. Malik Beasley has been a standout performer for the team, averaging 3.0 makes while shooting an impressive 46.4% from 3-point range.

On the other hand, the Rockets have struggled on the road, with a 2-8 record away from home. However, they have held their own against opponents with a record over .500, standing at 6-6 in such matchups.

The Bucks' offensive firepower is evident, averaging 124.2 points per game, a staggering 19.1 more points than the Rockets allow (105.1). In terms of shooting percentage, the Rockets are shooting 45.7% from the field, slightly lower than the 46.7% their opponents have shot this season.

Key players to watch in this matchup include Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is averaging 31.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and 1.6 steals for the Bucks, and Damian Lillard, who has been averaging 25.7 points and 7.9 assists over the last 10 games for Milwaukee. For the Rockets, Jabari Smith Jr. has been shooting 47.7% and averaging 12.5 points, while Fred VanVleet has been averaging 2.5 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

In their last 10 games, the Bucks have been in top form, with an 8-2 record and averaging 129.9 points, 45.7 rebounds, 27.0 assists, 7.2 steals, and 6.8 blocks per game, while shooting an impressive 51.5% from the field. The Rockets, with a 7-3 record in their last 10 games, have been averaging 108.9 points, 49.6 rebounds, 24.1 assists, 5.7 steals, and 5.6 blocks per game, with a shooting percentage of 44.2% from the field.

In terms of injuries, the Bucks are dealing with absences, including Pat Connaughton (ankle), Jae Crowder (groin), Chris Livingston (ankle), Khris Middleton (injury management), and Malik Beasley (illness). Meanwhile, the Rockets are missing Victor Oladipo (knee), with Amen Thompson and Jae'Sean Tate both listed as day to day due to illness.

Overall, this matchup promises to be an exciting clash between two talented teams, with both the Bucks and the Rockets looking to secure a crucial victory.