The Milwaukee Bucks are set to face the New York Knicks in a crucial NBA Cup clash on Friday, with both teams dealing with injury concerns. The Bucks will be without Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince, while Giannis Antetokounmpo’s availability is uncertain due to a groin injury that has kept him out of the past four games. The team is looking to break a six-game losing streak, and Antetokounmpo’s potential return could be a significant boost.

The Knicks, on the other hand, are seeking revenge for a loss to the Bucks last month and are eager to keep their NBA Cup campaign alive. A win would bring them closer to advancing to the next round of the in-season tournament. However, they will be without OG Anunoby and Landry Shamet due to injuries.

The Bucks’ transition defense has been a concern during their losing streak, and they will need to address this issue to have a chance against the Knicks. Meanwhile, the Knicks cannot afford to be complacent, having struggled against the Brooklyn Nets on Monday before coming through in the fourth quarter.

The predicted starting lineups for the game are: Bucks – Ryan Rollins, AJ Green, Gary Trent Jr., Kyle Kuzma, and Myles Turner; Knicks – Jalen Brunson, Miles McBride, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns.

Jalen Brunson has been in excellent form, averaging 30.7 points per game in his last six outings, and could potentially ease past his 30.5 points prop against the injury-hobbled Bucks. Ryan Rollins has been a bright spot for the Bucks, averaging 21.0 points per game over his last six games, and is likely to top his 18.5 points prop.

The Knicks are favorites to win, with odds of -305, while the Bucks are at +240. The point spread is set at 7.5 points, with the over/under at 234.5 points. If Antetokounmpo is cleared to play, the Bucks may cover the spread, but if he remains out, the Knicks are likely to secure a comfortable win. The game promises to be an exciting clash between two teams with different motivations and challenges.