Raptors look to claim first NBA Cup win

The Toronto Raptors are looking to secure their first win in the Emirates NBA Cup this season as they take on the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, November 6.

The Raptors, who are currently 0-1 in the competition and are coming off of a 128-109 loss against the Denver Nuggets. Toronto has not been on great form, losing 3 of their last four and currently sit at 4-4.

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For the Bucks, their start to the season has been poor as they enter this contest with a record of 1-7 and are on a four-game losing streak.

Both teams have work to do

The Raptors have had many issues to start their season off, mainly surrounding slow starts to games, while not being able to finish games. Perimeter defence has also been a problem.

There has also been massive vulnerability in the frontcourt and rebounding. While they’re strong on the offensive glass, their undersized or banged-up frontline has struggled to contain dominant opposing centres. With no true centre, the Raptors have struggled. They should be looking to make a trade for a well renowned centre to help them fix their issue there.

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Not having Kawhi Leonard has also seemed to affect the Raptors, as there is now more pressure on Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett to carry the load.

For the Bucks, life without Giannis Antetokounmpo has been difficult. They are fielding a younger squad and are in a transitional period.

The core now features players acquired in recent moves, such as Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kel’el Ware from Miami, alongside veterans like Myles Turner and coach Doc Rivers (with assistant Darvin Ham) trying to install a new system.

General execution and youth consistency have also been issues early in the year, the young and reshaped rotation (including rookie Brayden Burries and Ryan Rollins) has struggled with late-game execution, shooting efficiency, and closing out tight contests.

BOSTON, MA – NOVEMBER 4: Tyler Herro #11 of the Milwaukee Bucks handles the ball during the game against the Boston Celtics on November 4, 2026 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by…

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Publish date : 2026-11-06 17:17:00

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