The Milwaukee Bucks have reached an early fork in their new-season road. At 1-7 through Wednesday, they have lost three straight games, but their recent 102-109 loss to Boston showed they can stay close when they defend with energy. On Friday night at 8:00 p.m. EST, Milwaukee welcomes a Toronto Raptors team sitting at .500 and looking to bounce back from a loss in Denver. The big question is simple: Can Tyler Herro light the spark for a young Bucks group against Toronto’s swarming defense?

Herro is the lead scorer in Milwaukee’s new chapter. He averages 22.3 points and hits more than 42 percent of his three-point shots, so defenders cannot relax when he comes around a screen or pulls up from deep. He can also drive into the lane and make tough short jumpers. The Raptors will try to crowd him with their long wings and quick guards. Toronto averages 11.7 steals, which means its defenders often poke the ball loose and turn stops into fast-break chances.

Milwaukee needs its size to answer that pressure. The Bucks grab 49 rebounds per game, one of their clearest strengths. Kel’el Ware brings bounce and length near the hoop, while Myles Turner is the veteran protector of the paint. Turner averages 2.8 blocks, so Toronto players must be careful when they attack the rim. Ware has collected 8.3 rebounds in fewer than 19 minutes per game, giving Milwaukee extra chances after missed shots. If those two control the glass, Herro and the young guards can find room to run.

Still, the Bucks have work to do with the ball. Their 16.5 turnovers per game have helped opponents build leads, while Toronto takes better care of possessions. The Raptors also score more than 119 points per game because the ball keeps moving. Immanuel Quickley pushes the pace, shoots off the dribble, and sets up teammates. His 5.6 assists show how often he creates open looks instead of forcing a shot.

Scottie Barnes is the giant challenge in the middle of this story. At 6-foot-8, he can bring the ball up, power toward the basket, rebound, and guard several spots. Barnes has scored 24.4 points per game while adding nearly eight rebounds and five assists. He is the engine that connects Toronto’s defense to its attack. Kawhi Leonard is out, and Jakob Poeltl is questionable, so Barnes may need to carry even more of the load.

Toronto’s deeper start and active defense give it the edge, but Milwaukee’s home floor, rebounding, and Herro’s shot-making can make this a fierce fight. The prediction: Raptors win, with Barnes guiding a close, hard-working road victory.

Tyler Herro Tries to Spark Milwaukee Against Toronto’s Fast Hands