The Milwaukee Bucks host the Chicago Bulls as 3.5-point favorites with a total of 239.5 points. The NBA Cup continues Friday with its second day of group play, offering an early test for two Eastern Conference teams that are exceeding preseason expectations.
At 6-1, the Bulls hold the conference’s best record despite missing shooting guard Coby White, who averaged 20.4 points per game last season. White has yet to suit up this year while recovering from a calf injury.
Point guard Josh Giddey has emerged as the team’s leader, guiding Chicago in both scoring and assists while recording two triple-doubles. He is currently listed at +320 on FanDuel as the betting favorite for the Most Improved Player award.
Milwaukee began the season facing several questions, particularly after signing free-agent center Myles Turner and losing Damian Lillard to a season-ending injury. The team also continues to navigate the uncertainty surrounding Giannis Antetokounmpo’s long-term future, which remains a popular talking point.
Despite these hurdles, the Bucks have opened with a solid 5-3 record. Coach Doc Rivers has earned recognition for refining the team’s halfcourt offense and managing the absence of starting guard Kevin Porter Jr. Rivers turned to Ryan Rollins to handle point guard duties, keeping Gary Trent Jr. Green in a shooting role to maximize spacing around Antetokounmpo.
“Milwaukee is averaging efficiently under Rivers’ new adjustments,” said an NBA analyst.
The Bucks and Bulls meet in a crucial early-season battle, with Chicago thriving despite injuries and Milwaukee finding rhythm amid roster changes and evolving chemistry.