The Philadelphia 76ers will be without star forward LeBron James when they host the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The 76ers enter this game with a perfect 2-0 record, coming off a 114-106 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 22. Milwaukee, meanwhile, is searching for its first win of the young season.
LeBron James will not suit up for the Philadelphia 76ers against Milwaukee. The NBA's all-time leading scorer is in his 24th season and his first with Philadelphia, but he has been ruled out for this contest. Through his first two games with the 76ers, James averaged 15.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. His absence creates a significant opportunity for other players to step up in the rotation.
The Bucks arrive in Philadelphia with a clean injury report. All 15 players on their roster are available for head coach Taylor Jenkins. Milwaukee is 0-2 after a 132-125 loss to the Chicago Bulls on Friday night. The team's schedule was adjusted due to the Milwaukee Brewers' World Series run, with their home opener moved to an afternoon slot so players and staff could attend the baseball game.
The Philadelphia 76ers have started the season strong with two consecutive wins. Their recent form shows a 2W-0L record, and they are currently on a two-game winning run. They opened their campaign with a 106-100 road win against the New York Knicks on October 20. They followed that with a solid 114-106 home victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers just two days later.
This early success provides a positive foundation as they handle the opening stretch of the schedule. Playing without a talent like LeBron James is a challenge, but it tests the team's depth and system. Coach Nick Nurse will need to find scoring and playmaking from other sources to maintain their momentum.
This matchup looks different than it might have in years past. Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks' former franchise cornerstone, is no longer with the team, having moved to the Miami Heat. Milwaukee is in a rebuilding phase, which has shifted fan attention toward the city's baseball success. The Bucks organization has embraced this, showing support for the Brewers' World Series bid.
For the 76ers, this game begins a back-to-back set. Managing minutes and rotations will be important, especially with a key player sidelined. The focus will be on sustaining their defensive intensity and executing offensively without their primary facilitator. Players like Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid will carry heavier loads.
Milwaukee's visit to Philadelphia is a chance for the 76ers to solidify their hot start. A win would push them to 3-0 and demonstrate their ability to win under varied circumstances. The Bucks, desperate for a victory, will present a hungry opponent looking to spoil the party at Wells Fargo Center.
