The Denver Nuggets (38-19) are set to face the Milwaukee Bucks (40-17) on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This interconference battle features two of the league’s top teams, both vying for position as the playoffs approach.
Team Performance and Recent Form
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets enter this matchup as one of the most well-rounded teams in the league. They have won four of their last five games, including a dominant 115-102 win over the Utah Jazz. Nikola Jokić continues to make his case for MVP, averaging 25.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game. Jamal Murray has also stepped up, contributing 21.3 points and 5.1 assists per contest.
Denver’s defense has been solid, allowing 109.3 points per game, ranking ninth in the NBA. However, they will need to be at their best to slow down the Bucks, who have been in top form offensively.
Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks are currently riding a five-game winning streak, with their most recent victory coming in a 120-110 win over the Chicago Bulls. Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the heart of the team, averaging 29.7 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. He is supported by Khris Middleton, who is contributing 19.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per contest.
Milwaukee ranks second in the league in defensive efficiency and has held opponents to 104.2 points per game during their winning streak. They will look to maintain their defensive dominance while using their size and physicality to control the paint against Jokić.
Head-to-Head Matchup
This marks the first meeting between the Nuggets and Bucks this season. In their most recent clash last year, Milwaukee secured a narrow 116-112 win at home. Both teams excel on both ends of the floor, making this a highly anticipated matchup.
Key Players to Watch
- Denver Nuggets:
- Nikola Jokić – The reigning MVP candidate continues to put up impressive all-around numbers and will need a big game against Giannis.
- Jamal Murray – The Nuggets will need his scoring and playmaking to keep pace with the Bucks’ offense.
- Milwaukee Bucks:
- Giannis Antetokounmpo – A dominant force on both ends, Giannis will be key in dictating the pace of the game.
- Khris Middleton – A strong secondary scorer who can stretch the floor and create opportunities.
Game Outlook and Prediction
This game is a potential preview of the NBA Finals, with two of the league’s most complete teams going head-to-head. The Bucks’ home-court advantage and defensive consistency may give them the edge, but Denver’s firepower makes this a tightly contested battle. Expect a close game with big performances from both Jokić and Giannis.
Prediction: Milwaukee Bucks 112, Denver Nuggets 108.
Broadcast Info: Fans can watch the game live on TNT at 8:00 PM ET.
