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Clippers vs. Bucks: Post-All-Star Showdown Set for Milwaukee
After a much-needed All-Star break, the Los Angeles Clippers (35-20, 6th in Western Conference) and Milwaukee Bucks (34-21, 5th in Eastern Conference) resume their playoff push Thursday night in Milwaukee.
Both teams have new pieces to integrate, injuries to monitor, and a playoff race to navigate over the final stretch of the season.
Milwaukee Hoping for Giannis’ Return, Lillard’s Status Uncertain
The Bucks’ biggest concern heading into Thursday’s game is the status of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who hasn’t played since Feb. 2 due to a left calf strain. He also missed All-Star Weekend, raising questions about his availability moving forward.
Star guard Damian Lillard (right hamstring strain) is also listed as questionable after missing Milwaukee’s final game before the break. However, he did participate in the 3-Point Contest and played in the All-Star Game, suggesting he could return soon.
Despite missing their superstar, the Bucks have stayed competitive, going 3-2 in their last five games before the break. New addition Kyle Kuzma, acquired from Washington in a trade, has already provided a spark, averaging 16.3 points and 8.5 rebounds in his first four games with Milwaukee.
“Seeing what his skill set is out there for a couple of games, I can see how he would be able to be a pressure release for me and Giannis and bring something to the table for us,” Lillard said of Kuzma.
Clippers Building Chemistry with Ben Simmons, Kawhi Expected to Play
The Clippers added a new dynamic to their lineup before the break with the debut of Ben Simmons, who posted 12 points, eight rebounds, and six assists in 27 minutes off the bench in a 120-116 overtime win over Utah.
“He did everything we asked him to do,” Clippers center Ivica Zubac said. “Rebound, defend, push the ball in transition, create for others, attack the rim.”
Kawhi Leonard (knee injury management) missed that game but is expected to play Thursday, providing a major boost as the Clippers embark on a seven-game road trip.
Los Angeles is also looking for a series sweep of Milwaukee, having defeated the Bucks 127-117 on Jan. 25, when James Harden erupted for 40 points.
Key Matchups to Watch
| Matchup | Key Players |
|---|---|
| Giannis Antetokounmpo (if available) vs. Clippers’ Defense | Antetokounmpo vs. Ivica Zubac & P.J. Tucker |
| Damian Lillard vs. Clippers’ Backcourt | Lillard vs. James Harden & Russell Westbrook |
| Ben Simmons’ Impact Off the Bench | Simmons vs. Bobby Portis & Bucks’ second unit |
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Playoff Implications & Final Prediction
With 27 games left in the season, both teams need a strong second-half push to secure favorable playoff seeding:
- The Clippers sit at No. 6 in the West but have the toughest remaining schedule in the NBA.
- The Bucks hold the No. 5 seed in the East and need Giannis healthy to keep pace with top contenders.
Final Prediction:
If Giannis plays, expect the Bucks to control the paint and secure a tight home win.
If Giannis is out, the Clippers’ depth and defense could give them the edge.
