Bucks Face Rockets in Anticipated Rematch Without Key Players

HOUSTON, Texas — The Milwaukee Bucks will meet the Houston Rockets for the 57th game of the 2024-25 NBA season on February 25. Both teams are seeking to improve their standings, with the Bucks aiming for their 33rd win, while the Rockets look to avenge a narrow defeat from their previous encounter.

This matchup marks the second and final meeting between the two teams this season, with the Bucks having edged the Rockets by a single point back in mid-November. The previous game ended in a 102-101 victory for Milwaukee, a result that has ignited a desire for revenge among the Rockets.

However, Houston is facing challenges ahead of this game, particularly with the potential absence of their top perimeter defender, Dillon Brooks, who is struggling with an illness. Brooks has not missed a game since December 27, making this situation pivotal for the Rockets as they prepare for the Bucks.

“We’re hopeful for Dillon, but we’ll have to see closer to game time,” said Rockets coach Stephen Silas. “His defense is crucial for us, especially against a team as dynamic as Milwaukee.”

If Brooks cannot play, guards Cam Whitmore and Jeff Green may see their minutes increase significantly. Brooks has provided steady contributions this season, averaging 13.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 41.4% from the field and 38.8% from three-point range.

In the last meeting, Brooks had a lackluster performance, scoring only five points on 2-for-8 shooting from the field. He is coming off a disappointing outing against the Utah Jazz, where he managed only nine points, shooting just 16% from three.

Meanwhile, the Bucks are entering this matchup after securing four consecutive victories. The team is looking for a fifth straight win, riding the momentum that positioned them as competitive contenders in the Eastern Conference.

“It feels good to get back to winning,” said Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. “We’re finding our rhythm at the right time.”

Milwaukee currently holds a 32-24 record and hopes to improve its 12-15 record on the road. The Bucks have a +3.5 point spread in this game, indicating they are the underdogs despite their recent successes.

The Rockets, sitting at 35-22, also need to adjust their strategy as they hope for the return of veteran point guard Fred VanVleet, who has been sidelined since February 1 due to a right ankle injury. VanVleet practiced Monday and is listed as questionable for this game.

“Fred brings a lot to the table, and it’s been tough without him. We need him back,” said Jalen Green, who is expected to take on more responsibilities in VanVleet’s absence.

With the Rockets boasting an 18-9 record at home this season, they are eager to capitalize on the comfort of their Toyota Center arena. The game is significant not just for standings but for team morale as they look to turn around a trend of losses, having dropped seven of their last ten games.

The NBA clash between the Bucks and Rockets is set for an 8 p.m. ET tip-off. Fans can expect an intense game as both teams strive for victory amid injuries and a quest for revenge.