Is Giannis Antetokounmpo playing tonight against New York Knicks? Latest on Bucks star's status for back-to-back (Nov. 8)

Giannis Antetokounmpo will play against the New York Knicks in Friday's back-to-back for the Milwaukee Bucks. After a one-game injury absence, Giannis returned Thursday against the Utah Jazz, leading Milwaukee to its second win of the year. He had 31 points and 16 rebounds in a 123-100 victory for the Bucks.

The two-time MVP was questionable heading into the game. However, Giannis suited up and looked comfortable. He even mentioned Friday's game in passing during his post-game interview, suggesting his availability for the matchup.

The Bucks snapped a six-game streak, so keeping that momentum going would be critical to avoid another loss. That's possibly likelier with Giannis on the floor, who has been as sharp as ever, averaging 31.0 points, 12.9 rebounds and 5.7 assists, shooting 61.7%.

---

Giannis Antetokounmpo vs. New York Knicks Stats

Giannis Antetokounmpo has averaged 23.8 ppg, 10.1 rpg, 1.3 spg and 1.4 bpg in 38 games against the New York Knicks. He's shot 53.1%, including 35.1% from 3, seven percent higher than his career average from deep.

Giannis and the Bucks played against the Knicks five times last year. He was exceptional, tallying 29.0 ppg, 10.2 rpg and 7.4 apg, shooting on 59/71/60 splits. The Bucks won the season series 3-2.

The Knicks have made significant roster chances since, bringing in Karl-Anthony Towns for Julius Randle and trading for Mikal Bridges in separate deals.

However, Towns is not as equipped defensively to deal with a force like Giannis in the frontcourt, while the other three wings, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, lack size against the 6-foot-11 power forward.

That makes Giannis Antetokounmpo's presence key. He could flip the game single-handedly when needed, especially with the Knicks struggling to defend their paint well to begin the season.

New York is giving up 69.9% field goal attempts in the paint, the second-worst mark in the NBA.

---

How to watch Giannis Antetokounmpo and Milwaukee Bucks in action vs. New York Knicks?

FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin and MSG Network will provide coverage in local areas for the Bucks-Knicks game. Viewers outside the local regions can catch live action online via NBA League Pass. The game will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET at Fiserv Forum, the Bucks' homecourt.