The Milwaukee Bucks will face the Philadelphia 76ers on January 27, 2026, at Xfinity Mobile Arena, missing their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. His absence due to a calf injury, which is expected to sideline him for at least a month, poses a significant challenge for the Bucks. Meanwhile, the 76ers are primed to capitalize on this opportunity, led by guard Tyrese Maxey, who has been a standout performer this season.
Maxey has emerged as a critical component of the 76ers’ offense, averaging 29.4 points per game, which ranks him sixth in the NBA. His scoring ability has been particularly highlighted in recent matchups, including a remarkable 54-point game against the Bucks in November. With Antetokounmpo out, Maxey is expected to take full advantage of the Bucks’ defensive vulnerabilities, especially in the absence of a strong rim protector.
The Bucks have struggled significantly without their star. Without Antetokounmpo, their performance has dipped, leading to concerns about their competitiveness in this matchup. The 76ers, on the other hand, are looking to build momentum. While Joel Embiid remains questionable for the game, Maxey’s ability to shoulder the scoring load has become increasingly critical.
Despite a recent blowout loss to the Charlotte Hornets, there is optimism that Maxey can rebound against a struggling Bucks team. He has been logging heavy minutes, averaging 39.2 minutes per game, and consistently taking around 20.8 shots per game this month. With other players potentially stepping up to share the playmaking duties, Maxey could find the space he needs to excel.
The Bucks will need to rely on their remaining roster to fill the void left by Antetokounmpo, but the overall outlook appears bleak. The team’s performance has raised questions about their ability to compete effectively without their star forward, especially against the 76ers, who are looking to secure a win at home.
In terms of betting considerations, experts suggest watching Maxey’s scoring output closely. Given the circumstances, Maxey is expected to have a significant impact, and it may be wise to look at options involving his points total in betting markets. Additionally, the trend of the total points scored for the Bucks has leaned towards the Under in five of their last seven games, a statistic that could influence betting strategies.
As the game approaches, all eyes will be on Maxey as he attempts to lead the 76ers to victory against a Bucks team grappling with the absence of their key player. The matchup promises to be a pivotal moment for both teams as they navigate the challenges posed by injuries and team dynamics.
