The Milwaukee Bucks (8-5, 5th in Eastern Conference) host the Los Angeles Lakers (9-4, 4th in Western Conference) Saturday, 8 ET at Fiserv Forum. Both the Bucks and the Lakers are playing on the second leg of a back-to-back set. Here are three key storylines to know heading into this marquee inter-conference matchup Saturday.
- Comparing two dominant scoring forces in Dončić and Antetokounmpo: Two of the most unstoppable scoring forces in the NBA will collide in this matchup, and finding a way to slow them down will be key for either team’s chances of getting the win. Entering Saturday’s action, Luka Dončić and Giannis Antetokounmpo rank first and second in scoring in the NBA – although Dončić hasn’t played enough games to qualify as the NBA’s scoring leader – and the offense will go through them early and often. Dončić is averaging 33.7 ppg in his nine appearances, with the Lakers going 6-3 when he’s on the floor, and he’s also averaging 8.9 rebounds and 9.2 assists per tilt. Antetokounmpo has been nearly as dominant, with averages of 32.6 points, 11.5 rebounds and 7.3 dimes per game. The Bucks are 7-4 when he’s on the hardwood.
- Will Fiserv Forum provide an advantage for Milwaukee? This matchup will be the second leg of a back-to-back set for both teams. The Bucks are playing both games at home, whereas this will be the fifth straight road game for Los Angeles. Playing at home has been an advantage for the Bucks, as Milwaukee is 5-2 in front of its fans. However, the Lakers have been among the best teams in the league on the road and are 6-2 thus far, though both losses have come during their current five-game road swing. Still, it’s a remarkable road record for a Lakers team that’s still missing LeBron James, who’s yet to play this season due to a back injury.
- Role players will be key: Milwaukee will rely on Antetokounmpo to carry the offense, and Los Angeles will do the same with Dončić. This game could come down to who has the better depth behind their star power. The Bucks will need a strong effort from Myles Turner, who will have his hands full against Deandre Ayton. Ryan Rollins is another name to watch. The fourth-year guard has been one of the biggest surprises in the league during the first weeks of the regular season with his efficiency running the offense and impressive shooting numbers (53.7% fg, 17.5 pts). As for the Lakers, Austin Reaves may have transcended the label of role player, but he has been instrumental to L.A.’s highly efficient offense. Another player worth keeping close tabs on is Jake LaRavia, who has had an impressive start to his Lakers tenure as a spark plug off the bench. This game, being the second leg of a back-to-back for both sides, puts an extra spotlight on depth.
