The highly anticipated NBA matchup between the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks on October 24, 2025, is generating significant buzz, but injury concerns are casting shadows over both teams' lineups. Here's your comprehensive breakdown of who's suiting up and who's watching from the sidelines.
Milwaukee Bucks: Giannis Ready to Dominate
The Bucks enter this contest with relatively good health news. Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is fully cleared to play, bringing his explosive athleticism to the court without restrictions. Joining him are key contributors Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday, both confirmed available and expected to start.
However, Milwaukee faces one significant absence. Reserve guard Pat Connaughton remains sidelined with a calf strain, leaving a gap in their bench depth that coach Mike Budenholzer will need to address strategically.
Toronto Raptors: Barnes Questionable, Key Players Out
The Raptors' situation appears more concerning as they prepare to host the Bucks. All-Star forward Scottie Barnes carries a questionable tag due to ankle soreness that limited his practice participation throughout the week. His game-time decision could dramatically impact Toronto's offensive and defensive schemes.
More definitively, the Raptors will be without two important rotation players. Veteran forward Thaddeus Young continues recovering from a hamstring issue, while backup center Christian Koloko remains out with knee discomfort, weakening Toronto's frontcourt options against Milwaukee's size.
Game Impact: What These Absences Mean
With Barnes potentially limited or absent, the Raptors lose their primary playmaker and defensive anchor. This creates additional pressure on Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby to carry both scoring and defensive responsibilities against one of the Eastern Conference's elite teams.
For the Bucks, Connaughton's absence tests their bench consistency, but with their core trio healthy, they maintain a significant advantage in star power and experience. The potential mismatch in the frontcourt could prove decisive if Toronto's big men struggle with foul trouble.
What to Watch For
- Scottie Barnes' pre-game warmup will be closely monitored – his mobility and shooting form could indicate his availability
- Bench production becomes critical for both teams given their missing rotation players
- Giannis vs Toronto's frontcourt – without Koloko, the Raptors lack their best rim protector against Antetokounmpo's relentless drives
Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET at Scotiabank Arena, with both teams looking to establish early momentum in this young NBA season despite their respective health challenges.
