1. Will Kris Middleton Play?
The Bucks won a lopsided game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday night without All-Star forward Kris Middleton. Middleton missed the game due to a sore neck. The All-Star forward is averaging 21.1 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game this season. He is also on pace to join the exclusive 50-40-90 club. Middleton is only averaging 14.5 points against the Hornets this season. Given the Hornets poor record, don’t be surprised if he is given another game off to continue the healing process.
2. The Hornets Look to Knock Off Another Elite Team
The Hornets defeated the Toronto Raptors 99-96 on Friday night. Toronto was playing without Fred Van Vleet and Marc Gasol, but nevertheless, it was a big confidence booster for the young Hornets. Every Hornets starter scored in double figures, and as a team they shot 43% from three. The Hornets still a lowly 21-38, but have shown they are not a team to sleep on. The Bucks have defeated the Hornets twice already this year, but the Raptors had beaten them twice as well before losing to them on Friday.
3. Giannis Being Giannis
The reigning MVP has been even better this season, averaging 29.7 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game. Recently, the Bucks have started playing Giannis at the center position, taking advantage of his dominance in the paint. The MVP is averaging 28 points against the Hornets this season, including 30 in their previous match up in Paris. If Middleton misses this game, look for Giannis to take on an even bigger role in the offense than he already does.
Note: Kyle Korver will remain sidelined with a sore back.
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