The NBA serves up a marquee inter-conference showdown this week as the Milwaukee Bucks travel to face the Golden State Warriors at the Chase Center in San Francisco. The game is scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, 2026, with tip-off set for 10:00 PM Eastern Time (which translates to Thursday, 8:30 AM Indian Standard Time). While both squads are navigating injury concerns, their superstar cornerstones are expected to lead the charge in a pivotal mid-season contest.
Team Context and Season Standings
This matchup arrives at a critical juncture for both franchises. The Milwaukee Bucks, with a record of 16 wins and 20 losses, are striving to reach the .500 mark. They bring positive road momentum into this game, having secured three consecutive victories away from home, despite a 7-11 road record overall. Their offense averages 113.3 points per game but has dipped to 108.7 PPG over their last ten outings.
The Golden State Warriors, meanwhile, are looking to solidify their position with a 19-18 overall record. Their strength has undoubtedly been at home in San Francisco, where they boast an impressive 11-5 record. Ranked seventh in league defense, they allow just 113.6 points per game, a key factor in their home-court success. They average 116.1 points offensively in their last ten games.
Injury Report and Player Impact
The availability of key role players could significantly influence the game's outcome. The Bucks' injury list includes Taurean Prince, who remains out indefinitely following neck surgery. Alex Antetokounmpo is listed as questionable due to a calf issue.
The Warriors face more immediate rotation challenges. They have ruled out Jonathan Kuminga (illness) and Seth Curry (thigh injury). The status of defensive anchor Draymond Green (ankle) and Gary Payton II (calf) is questionable. These absences may lead to increased responsibility for Jimmy Butler III, who averages 19.7 points per game.
With stars potentially limited, secondary scorers will be in focus. Milwaukee continues to rely on Ryan Rollins and his 17.2 PPG average. Rollins torched the Warriors for 32 points in their first meeting this season, a 120-110 Bucks victory on October 30.
How to Watch, Odds, and Prediction
For fans in India, the game will be available for viewing on ESPN India. In the United States, local broadcasts are on NBC Sports Bay Area (Warriors) and FDSWI (Bucks), with streaming via Fubo, NBA TV, and NBA League Pass.
Oddsmakers favor the Warriors at home, installing them as 5.5 to 6-point favorites. The over/under total is set around 229.5 to 230 points. The moneyline places Golden State around -226, with Milwaukee at approximately +200. An early prediction suggests a Warriors victory, 118-111, with the total score likely going under the set line. The final outcome may hinge on Draymond Green's ability to suit up and contain Giannis Antetokounmpo, setting the stage for a compelling Stephen Curry response to October's loss.
