Bulls vs Bucks: Eastern Conference Showdown

Eastern Heavyweights Collide: Bulls Take on Bucks

The NBA Cup continues to deliver exciting matchups as the Chicago Bulls (6-1) travel to face the Milwaukee Bucks (5-3) in a crucial Eastern Conference showdown on November 7, 2025. This game between Central Division rivals carries significant implications as both teams have exceeded preseason expectations.

The Bulls enter as the conference's top team, boasting a 6-1 record that places them firmly in the playoff conversation. Their success has been particularly impressive given the absence of shooting guard Coby White, who averaged 20.4 points last season but remains sidelined with a calf injury.

The Bulls' Rising Star: Josh Giddey

Point guard Josh Giddey has been the catalyst for Chicago's strong start, leading the team in both points and assists while posting two triple-doubles already this season. His emergence has earned him recognition as the current +320 betting favorite for the Most Improved Player award at FanDuel.

"Giddey has taken on a larger role and has really elevated his game," said Bulls coach Billy Donovan. "His court vision and ability to control the tempo have been crucial to our success."

Bucks Adjusting Under Doc Rivers

The Bucks, despite numerous offseason uncertainties, have started the season at 5-3. Coach Doc Rivers deserves significant credit for optimizing the team's halfcourt offense and adapting to injuries, particularly at the point guard position following the season-ending injury to Damian Lillard.

"Rivers has done an excellent job of maximizing our talent," said Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. "He's found ways to get the best out of everyone, especially our shooters."

The A.J. Green Factor

A key to Milwaukee's offensive improvement has been the emergence of A.J. Green. After signing a four-year extension worth $45 million, Green is thriving as a starter, shooting an impressive 52.9% from beyond the arc. He has made at least three 3-pointers in all eight games this season.

"Green's spacing has been invaluable," Rivers noted. "He allows us to spread the floor for Giannis and creates driving lanes for our entire team."

Betting Insights and Odds

The Bucks are favored by 3.5 points with a total of 239.5 points. One notable betting play is A.J. Green to make over 2.5 three-pointers (+132 odds at FanDuel), given his hot start and the high Over/Under for the game.

"Green has been exceptional from deep, and with the Bulls' defensive focus on Giannis, Green should have opportunities," said betting analyst Doug Kezirian, who has documented success in sports betting.

How to Watch

Date: November 7, 2025
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Venue: Fiserv Forum
TV: CHSN, FDSWI
Streaming: Fubo

Injury Reports

Bucks:
- Kevin Porter Jr.: Out (Ankle)
- Taurean Prince: Questionable (Neck)

Bulls:
- Ayo Dosunmu: Questionable (Quadricep)
- Zach Collins: Out (Wrist)
- Coby White: Out (Calf)

Key Matchup Stats

The Bulls' defense has been particularly strong, allowing just 115.6 points per game, while the Bucks average 119.9 points per contest. Offensively, the Bulls put up 120.4 points per game, just 1.3 more than the Bucks typically allow.

"This game will come down to which team can impose their will on both ends," said NBA analyst Jeff Van Gundy. "The Bulls' defense versus the Bucks' spacing will be the key storyline."

With both teams playing well and the Bulls missing key players, this should be a tightly contested game that could have significant implications for seeding in the Eastern Conference.