Game Details:
- Matchup: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Toronto Raptors
- Date: Wednesday, November 4
- Time: 7:40 PM EST
- Location: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, ON
- Betting Odds: Raptors -4.5, Over/Under 237.5
Preview & Analysis
The Milwaukee Bucks travel to Toronto to take on a Raptors team favored to defend their home court. This matchup is defined by one massive absence and one significant question mark on the injury report, which shapes the entire outlook of the game.
The biggest story for the Bucks is the devastating injury to superstar guard Damian Lillard. A search result from late October confirms Lillard suffered a torn Achilles tendon in the spring, and his absence creates a massive void in Milwaukee’s offense. Without Lillard’s scoring and playmaking, the offensive burden falls almost entirely on the shoulders of Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Bucks will have to find other sources of offense to keep pace with a Raptors team playing at home.
The Raptors, meanwhile, are dealing with an injury concern of their own that could directly impact their ability to contain Milwaukee’s lone superstar. According to reports, starting center Jakob Poeltl is listed as questionable with a back issue. Poeltl’s status is critical; his size and defensive presence in the paint are Toronto’s best answer for slowing down an aggressive Antetokounmpo. If Poeltl is unable to play, the Raptors will have a much more difficult time protecting the rim.
Injury Report
- Milwaukee Bucks: Damian Lillard (Achilles) is OUT.
- Toronto Raptors: Jakob Poeltl (back) is Questionable.
Prediction
This game hinges on two key factors: Milwaukee’s ability to generate offense without Damian Lillard and Jakob Poeltl’s availability for Toronto.
The betting line, with the Raptors favored by 4.5 points, is a direct reflection of Lillard’s absence. It’s difficult to see this version of the Bucks contributing enough to a shootout, making the high total of 237.5 points look particularly vulnerable. Milwaukee’s offense is significantly less potent, and the game plan will likely revolve around Giannis grinding out possessions in the half-court.
Even if Poeltl sits, the Raptors can throw multiple defenders at Giannis and force the Bucks’ supporting cast to beat them. At home, Toronto should be able to control the tempo and capitalize on Milwaukee’s shorthanded roster. While Antetokounmpo is more than capable of keeping any game close by himself, winning on the road without his primary running mate is a tall order. The Raptors should secure the win, and the game has a strong chance of being a lower-scoring affair than oddsmakers anticipate.
The Pick: Raptors -4.5
Total: Under 237.5
Predicted Score: Raptors 116 – Bucks 109
Sources:
Milwaukee Bucks Injury Status – ESPN
Milwaukee Bucks Injury Status – ESPN (PH)
Milwaukee Bucks Injury Report and Status 2025-26 – CBS Sports
Injury Report – The Official Site of the Milwaukee Bucks
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