After an exciting first night of the In-Season Tournament quarterfinals, it's the New York Knicks' turn to take the stage in Milwaukee on Tuesday. The Bucks won East Group B, while the Knicks' point differential gave them the wildcard spot.
Indiana upset Boston on Monday behind Tyrese Haliburton's first-ever triple-double, and New York could do the same to Milwaukee. The Bucks got the best of the Knicks on Nov. 3, but even with a poor shooting performance from New York, that game was a lot closer than it should've been.
Tuesday's game will have a playoff feel, which is what the NBA intended. A trip to Las Vegas is on the line. If you think the Knicks don't care about that or the $500,00 every player and coach from the winning team will receive, think again. Luckily, New York will be at full strength.
Julius Randle's status for tonight's game vs. Bucks
Julius Randle (knee soreness) was listed as questionable for New York's game against Toronto on Friday. He was upgraded to available. For Tuesday's game, Randle isn't on the injury report.
Projected starting lineups tonight
New York: Jalen Brunson, Quentin Grimes, RJ Barrett, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson
Milwaukee: Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley, Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Brook Lopez
Knicks injury report
Evan Fournier (illness) and DaQuan Jeffries (illness) are listed as questionable.
Bucks injury report
Pat Connaughton (ankle) and Jae Crowder (adductor and abdominal tear) are out. Andre Jackson Jr. (back) is questionable.
New York's next five opponents
New York's next few days depend on how Tuesday's game plays out. A win guarantees a trip to Vegas, while a loss could mean a couple of different things.
Dec. 6-9: TBD
Dec. 11 vs. Toronto
Dec. 13 at Utah
Dec. 15 at Phoenix
Dec. 16 at Los Angeles Clippers