Clips vs Bucks Preview: Rebuild Ambitions Face Giannis' Return

The Los Angeles Clippers bring a 38-36 record into Milwaukee, fighting to stay in the play-in conversation. Meanwhile, the Bucks sit at 29-44, struggling to stay relevant in a tough conference. Both teams carry uncertainty heading into this matchup. Kawhi Leonard leads LA, while Giannis Antetokounmpo's availability remains doubtful for Milwaukee's home crowd.

Before the trade deadline, James Harden requested a trade, and the Clippers sent him to Cleveland in exchange for Darius Garland. Garland is nearly a decade younger than Harden, making him a foundational piece for LA's future. The Clippers also traded center Ivica Zubac to Indiana for draft compensation, signaling a soft rebuild while remaining competitive enough for a play-in spot.

Milwaukee's season has been turbulent. After Damian Lillard suffered a torn Achilles and was eventually waived, the Bucks tried rebuilding around Giannis. Now Giannis is doubtful with a knee injury, missing his sixth straight contest. Kevin Porter Jr. is also out, likely for the rest of the season. Young players like Ryan Rollins and Cam Thomas have stepped up, providing scoring punch during a difficult stretch.

Although the Clippers recently lost to Philadelphia, Kawhi Leonard delivered 29 points on 57 percent shooting, along with 6 assists and 3 steals. He has scored 20 or more points in six straight games. Meanwhile, Milwaukee will likely lean on Rollins and Thomas without Giannis. If LA's defense limits Milwaukee's young scorers, the Clippers have a real chance to grab a crucial road win.