The Milwaukee Bucks are set to face off against the Phoenix Suns tonight at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, with the game scheduled to tip off at 7:30 p.m. ET. This matchup comes at a critical time for both teams, as they each seek to break out of recent losing streaks. The Bucks enter the contest with a record of 40-34, having lost their last four games, while the Suns sit at 35-40, having dropped three straight.
In this highly anticipated matchup, the Bucks are favored by 7 points, with the over/under set at 220.5 points. According to DraftKings, the predicted final score is Bucks 118, Suns 112. The Bucks have struggled in recent outings but are still considered a formidable opponent, especially at home.
Milwaukee’s recent form has been concerning, particularly after a disappointing 145-124 loss to the Atlanta Hawks, which has put them in a precarious position in the Eastern Conference standings. Despite this, the Bucks remain in the top six, holding a four-game lead over the seventh-place Atlanta Hawks, thus avoiding the play-in tournament for now.
On the other hand, the Suns are facing their own challenges. They are currently a game behind the Sacramento Kings for the 10th and final play-in spot in the Western Conference. Their situation has been exacerbated by the absence of star player Kevin Durant, who is sidelined with an ankle injury and is not expected to return until April 8. The Suns are just 3-10 against the spread without Durant this season, which has raised concerns about their ability to compete effectively.
Both teams have seen their offenses struggle recently, with the Bucks averaging 114.5 points per game, ranking 13th in the league, and the Suns close behind at 114.3 points per game, placing them 14th. However, the Bucks boast a slightly better field goal percentage at 48.1%, compared to the Suns’ 48.0%. Defensively, the Bucks allow 112.8 points per game, while the Suns give up 116.4 points, which ranks them 22nd in the league.
In terms of betting trends, the Bucks have covered the spread 35 times in 74 opportunities this season, with a record of 9-8-1 when favored by at least 7 points. They have also won 33 of their 51 games as favorites, translating to a 64.7% winning percentage. Conversely, the Suns have only covered the spread 28 times in 75 games, and they have struggled in recent outings, going 3-7 against the first-half spread in their last 10 games.
Despite the Bucks’ current struggles, they have historically performed well against the Suns, winning and covering the spread in seven of their last ten meetings. This trend could play a significant role in the outcome of tonight’s game, especially with Milwaukee looking to regain its footing.
In addition to the matchup dynamics, the game will also feature key player props worth considering. One intriguing option is Suns center Nick Richards, who has been performing well in recent games. He is projected to exceed his points and rebounds total of 17.5, having cleared this mark in six consecutive games against teams that rank in the bottom 10 defensively for rebounds allowed. Richards has averaged 25.33 points and rebounds combined in those matchups, making him a player to watch.
As the game approaches, both teams will be eager to turn their fortunes around. The Bucks will look to utilize their home-court advantage and the presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who remains a dominant force in the league. Meanwhile, the Suns will need to rally without Durant and find a way to capitalize on any weaknesses in the Bucks’ defense.
With playoff implications on the line, expect a competitive atmosphere at Fiserv Forum. The stakes are high, and both teams will be looking to secure a much-needed victory to bolster their playoff hopes.
As the clock ticks down to tip-off, fans are left wondering if the Bucks can break their losing streak or if the Suns can pull off an upset despite their injury woes. Tune in to TNT at 7:30 p.m. ET to catch all the action live.
In summary, the Bucks are favored to win, but with both teams struggling, anything can happen in this crucial matchup. The outcome will not only impact their standings but also set the tone for the remainder of the season.
