After a hope-inducing road win over the Boston Celtics on Dec. 19, the Chicago Bulls have gone 0-for-3 during the rest of their rough five-game stretch that includes two against the Celtics and two against the Milwaukee Bucks, the second of which is tonight at the United Center.
The Bulls had a chance to make a statement during this run but have failed to capitalize on the win in Boston. Beating the Bucks to split two pairs of games against two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference would give Chicago some momentum heading into a much easier January schedule.
Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo have been absent from Milwaukee's lineup since its Emirates NBA Cup victory, and playing at home against a Bucks team down its two best players would present a much less daunting challenge for Chicago.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard questionable to face Bulls
Billy Donovan's team will have to wait until closer to game time to find out if it'll be facing the Bucks at full strength, as Antetokoumpo and Lillard are both listed on Milwaukee's injury report as questionable with non-Covid illnesses.
The third member of the Bucks' big three, Khris Middleton, has filled in admirably in Giannis' and Dame's absences, but Milwaukee is also coming off a disappointing loss to the Brooklyn Nets.
Ayo Dosunmu doubtful, Josh Giddey questionable to face Bucks
The Bulls have a lengthy injury report that includes a handful of key players, although there's a chance some of them will suit up tonight.
Chicago's backcourt could be closer to whole with point guard Josh Giddey potentially returning to the starting five. Lonzo Ball is questionable, but another key piece of the team's guard rotation, Ayo Dosunmu, is listed as doubtful on the injury report.
Full injury report for Bulls vs. Bucks
The complete injury report for tonight's game is as follows:
Chicago Bulls
Doubtful: Ayo Dosunmu (calf)
Questionable: Josh Giddey (ankle); Matas Buzelis (illness); Lonzo Ball (illness)
Probable: Jalen Smith (ankle)
Milwaukee Bucks
Out: AJ Johnson (illness); Tyler Smith (G League); Chris Livingston (G League)
Doubtful: Damian Lillard (illness)
Questionable: Giannis Antetokounmpo (illness)
Probable: Khris Middleton (ankles)