Milwaukee Bucks vs. Detroit Pistons Preseason Preview: A Motor City Warm-up
The 2024–25 Milwaukee Bucks season is almost here as they begin their preseason tonight against the Detroit Pistons. After a five-month break, Bucks fans will finally get a look at the team featuring stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, and Khris Middleton, all aiming for another NBA title.
Team Update
The Bucks made some notable offseason changes, reshuffling their rotation around their core four players. Jae Crowder, Patrick Beverley, and Malik Beasley are out, replaced by Taurean Prince, Delon Wright, and Gary Trent Jr. Tonight will offer the first chance to see how these new additions fit in alongside Giannis, Middleton, Brook Lopez, and last year’s major acquisition, Damian Lillard.
Familiar faces Bobby Portis and Pat Connaughton are still in the mix. Young prospects like AJ Johnson, Andre Jackson Jr., AJ Green, MarJon Beauchamp, and Tyler Smith will likely get more playing time in preseason to show what they can do.
The Pistons, on the other hand, are looking to rebound from a disastrous 14-win season. Their young core of Cade Cunningham, Isaiah Stewart, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren return, alongside rookies Ausar Thompson and Marcus Sasser. Free-agent signings Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Paul Reed will add veteran presence.
New GM Trajan Langdon might look to trade some veterans later in the season, but for now, they’re expected to mentor Detroit’s young talent. Former Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff now leads the team, tasked with blending the experience of veterans with the youthful energy of the roster.
Injury Report
Preseason injuries aren’t formally reported by the NBA, but there are updates. For the Bucks, Khris Middleton, who had offseason procedures on both ankles, is day-to-day and likely won’t play. However, the rest of the roster is expected to be available. Detroit’s Ausar Thompson is still recovering from a blood clot issue and hasn’t been cleared for practice yet, but the rest of the Pistons are healthy.
Player to Watch
Preseason games often highlight younger players, and for Milwaukee, first-round pick AJ Johnson is one to keep an eye on after impressing in Summer League. Many Bucks fans are excited to see him play alongside Giannis and potentially get some time running the offense.
How to Watch
The game will be broadcast on ESPN at 7:00 PM CDT.
