The energy around the Fiserv Forum has been... let's just say "complicated" lately. If you've been following the 2025-26 season, you know exactly what I mean. One night, Giannis Antetokounmpo looks like an untouchable Greek god descending from Olympus to drop 40; the next, the team’s defensive rotations look like a chaotic game of tag where everyone is "it." It's been a rollercoaster.
But honestly, the next Milwaukee Bucks game isn't just another date on the calendar. It’s a massive spotlight moment. On Monday, January 19, 2026, the Bucks are headed down to Georgia to face the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena. This isn't just a random cross-conference road trip. It’s the NBA’s prestigious MLK Day showcase, and the vibes in Atlanta for this game are always on another level.
What to Expect from the Next Milwaukee Bucks Game in Atlanta
Tip-off is set for 1:00 PM local time (which is noon for those of us back in Brew City). If you're planning on watching, you've got to be ready for that early start. The Hawks are rocking their "City Edition" jerseys for this one, and the arena is basically going to be a giant party.
But for the Bucks, it’s strictly business.
Coming off a brutal stretch that included a tough loss to Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs on January 15, Milwaukee is desperate to find some rhythm. The standings aren't exactly pretty right now. As of mid-January, the Bucks are sitting at 17-24. Yeah, you read that right. It’s been a struggle to stay above water, and every single win feels like a temporary life raft.
The Giannis Factor and the Injury Bug
Let's talk about the roster because it’s a bit of a mess. Giannis has been dealing with a lingering left ankle sprain. He was listed as "probable" for the San Antonio game, and while he played, he didn't quite have that explosive "freak" burst we’re used to seeing. He’s still averaging roughly 29 points and 10 boards over his last few outings, but he's carrying a massive load.
Then there’s Damian Lillard.
Dame has been sidelined with a left Achilles tendon issue. The team has officially called it "injury management," which is often code for we need him healthy for the playoffs so we're being extra careful. Without Lillard’s gravity on the perimeter, the floor shrinking. Ryan Rollins and AJ Green have been trying to fill those shoes, but let's be real: they aren't Dame.
Matchup Nightmare: Containing the Hawks
Atlanta is a weird team to play against. They play fast. Like, really fast.
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The Bucks' defense has been the Achilles' heel all year. Doc Rivers has been tinkering with the lineups, trying to find a group that won't give up 130 points to a lottery team. In their recent game against the Timberwolves, they got absolutely torched, giving up 139 points at home. That's embarrassing.
Against Atlanta, the key is going to be transition defense. If the Bucks can't get back and set their half-court defense, the Hawks will run them right out of the building.
Why This Specific Game Matters So Much
You might be thinking, "It's just one game in January, who cares?"
I'll tell you who cares: the locker room.
There’s a lot of noise right now about the Bucks' window closing. People are talking about trades. People are questioning if the Brook Lopez/Khris Middleton era is finally gasping its last breath. A win on national TV against a solid Hawks team would quiet some of that talk. It’s about pride.
Also, the schedule doesn't get any easier. After Atlanta, the Bucks have to fly back home to face the Oklahoma City Thunder (Jan 21) and the Denver Nuggets (Jan 23). Those are two of the best teams in the league. If they go into that home stand on a losing streak, things could get ugly fast.
Probable Starting Lineups (Subject to the Training Room)
Based on the latest reports and how Doc has been leaning, here is what we're likely looking at for Monday:
- Milwaukee Bucks: Ryan Rollins (G), AJ Green (G), Khris Middleton (F), Giannis Antetokounmpo (F), Brook Lopez (C)
- Atlanta Hawks: Trae Young is sidelined until mid-February, so expect a heavy dose of Dyson Daniels and De'Andre Hunter handling the perimeter duties.
Honestly, the lack of Trae Young for the Hawks gives Milwaukee a massive opening. If they can't beat an Atlanta team missing its superstar, the panic meter in Wisconsin is going to hit an 11.
How to Watch and Follow Along
If you aren't making the trip down to the ATL, you can catch the game on FDSWI (Bally Sports Wisconsin) or WMLW. Since it's a holiday game, it might also see some national coverage depending on your local listings.
For the radio crowd, 1070 The Game is your go-to. There’s something special about listening to a midday game on the radio while you’re supposed to be "working" (don't worry, your secret is safe with me).
Actionable Insights for Fans
If you're looking to engage with this game beyond just shouting at your TV, here is what you should be watching for:
- The First Six Minutes: The Bucks have been notorious for slow starts lately. If they are down by 10 halfway through the first quarter, it’s going to be a long afternoon. Look for Giannis to attack the rim immediately to set the tone.
- The Bobby Portis Energy: With the starters struggling, Bobby has been the heartbeat of the second unit. His rebounding and "under-the-skin" defense will be crucial against Atlanta's bigs.
- Three-Point Variance: Milwaukee lives and dies by the three. If Malik Beasley or AJ Green can hit three or four early shots, it opens everything up for the Giannis drive-and-kick game.
- Check the Injury Report: Always check the official NBA injury report about 90 minutes before tip-off. With Dame's Achilles and Giannis' ankle, things can change in a heartbeat.
The next Milwaukee Bucks game is more than just a box score entry. It's a temperature check for a team that is trying to prove it still belongs in the elite conversation. Atlanta won't make it easy, but if the Bucks want to save their season, it starts on Monday.
Keep an eye on the official Bucks social media channels for the final starting five, as late scratches have been common this month. If you're betting or playing fantasy, keep a very close watch on the status of Taurean Prince, who is still recovering from neck surgery and remains out for the foreseeable future. This has left a massive hole in the wing rotation that the Bucks are still struggling to patch up.
Make sure your TV is tuned in by 12:00 PM CST on Monday to see if the Bucks can finally turn the corner. This MLK Day matchup has all the ingredients for a classic—or a wake-up call.
Standings-wise, a win puts them closer to the play-in hunt, while a loss keeps them buried in the bottom third of the Eastern Conference. The stakes are quietly very high.