The Los Angeles Clippers will go up against the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This game is shaping up to be an exciting showdown between two teams looking to make a splash in the playoffs.
The Clippers are coming into this matchup with a 31-23 record and are on a three-game winning streak after the All-Star break. Their recent victories include a 120-116 win against the Utah Jazz on February 13 and took down the Memphis Grizzlies 128-114 on February 12. These games really showcase the team’s strong offense and determination.
On the other side, the Bucks are sitting at a 29-24 record and have been a bit up and down lately, with a 4-6 mark in their last ten games before the break. Still, they managed to snag a close 103-101 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 13, even without some of their star players. This victory really highlights the team’s depth and their knack for stepping up when it counts.
Injury Reports and Player Availability
Injuries are a big factor in how this matchup is shaping up. The Bucks will be missing their star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, who’s out with a calf injury. That’s a tough blow since he’s crucial for both their offense and defense. On the Clippers’ end, Kawhi Leonard is listed as day-to-day and taking some time off, while Drew Eubanks (ankle) and Amir Coffey (knee) are also uncertain. If Leonard can’t play, it could really affect how the Clippers score and defend.
Key Player Matchups
James Harden (Clippers) vs. Damian Lillard (Bucks): Harden, famous for his ability to score in various ways and create plays, will be running the Clippers’ offense. On the other side, Lillard, with his long-range shooting and ability to come through in the clutch, will spearhead the Bucks’ offense.
Kawhi Leonard (Clippers) vs. Kyle Kuzma (Bucks): If Leonard is good to go, his skills on defense and ability to hit mid-range shots will be key for the Clippers. Conversely, Kuzma, who just joined the Bucks, adds some serious scoring and rebounding power. This matchup between the forwards will really challenge Kuzma to adjust to Leonard’s experienced defense.
Ivica Zubac (Clippers) vs. Brook Lopez (Bucks): Zubac’s ability to grab boards and block shots will be crucial for the Clippers in the paint. On the other hand, Lopez brings experience as a center, providing rim protection and the ability to hit threes, which helps spread the floor.
Team Dynamics
Los Angeles Clippers: The Clippers have really strengthened their roster by bringing in James Harden and Ben Simmons. Harden brings his offensive skills to the table, while Simmons adds some serious defensive flexibility. Plus, if Kawhi Leonard comes back, it just makes their chances even better, giving them a dynamic duo that can really change the flow of a game.
Milwaukee Bucks: The Bucks brought in Damian Lillard to boost Giannis Antetokounmpo’s inside play with some solid outside shooting. But with Giannis out nursing a calf injury, Lillard has to take on a bigger role. Adding Kyle Kuzma to the mix gives the team more depth, but figuring out how the new guys gel with the current roster is still a key concern.
Strategic Considerations
Clippers’ Approach: The Clippers could really lean into perimeter shooting and isolation plays with Harden and maybe Leonard running the offense. Simmons will have a key role on defense, likely matching up against Lillard to help limit his scoring.
Bucks’ Approach: Lillard is probably going to be the main guy on offense, making the most of pick-and-roll plays and his long-range shooting. The team might also count on Brook Lopez and Kyle Kuzma to step up in the frontcourt, focusing on moving the ball around to set up open looks.
With the way the teams are set up and the injuries they’re dealing with, this game is shaping up to be a real battle. The Clippers have some solid depth, and if Kawhi Leonard comes back, they might have a bit of an advantage. But you can’t overlook Damian Lillard—he’s got a skill in dominating games.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Clippers 112, Milwaukee Bucks 107