The NBA matchup on March 24, 2025, features the Milwaukee Bucks visiting the Phoenix Suns at PHX Arena, with both teams looking for playoff momentum. The Bucks, currently fifth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 41-30, are coming off a victory against the Sacramento Kings, defeating them 114-108 as 1.5-point underdogs. This win, part of a streak where the Bucks have claimed four out of their last six games, is crucial as they edge towards postseason play.
On the other hand, the Suns, currently at 34-37, are making a push for a play-in spot in the Western Conference. They clinched a win against the Cleveland Cavaliers with a score of 123-112, led by the impressive performance of Kevin Durant, who scored 42 points. This victory marked the third consecutive win for the Suns as they strive to secure their place in the playoff race.
As for the game itself, tip-off is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET. Currently, BetMGM Sportsbook lists the Suns as 3-point favorites, with the over/under total set at 223.5 points. The Bucks are currently valued at +125 on the moneyline, while the Suns are at -150. The teams have already faced off once this season, with the Bucks winning their previous encounter 140-129 on March 17.
In terms of injuries affecting the teams, Bucks star Damian Lillard has been ruled out due to a calf injury, significantly impacting their lineup. Giannis Antetokounmpo, however, is listed as probable. Meanwhile, the Suns' Bradley Beal is also out with a hamstring issue, but Mason Plumlee and Nick Richards are both considered probable to play.
Given the injury concerns for the Bucks and the Suns’ recent form, betting analysts favor Phoenix to cover the spread. The Suns have been dominant, winning eight of their last ten games when listed as favorites. This is also reiterated by their impressive offensive display, averaging 115.3 points per game, placing them eighth in the NBA for offensive rating. They showcase a strong three-point shooting percentage of 38.4%.
As the teams prepare, various prop bets highlight individual player performance expectations. For instance, Giannis Antetokounmpo is projected to face a heavy workload in Lillard's absence. He is expected to dominate on the scoreboard given his current form, averaging 30.2 points per game, alongside a high rebounding average of over 12 per game. Given the Suns' struggles defensively, letting up high scores in their recent matches, he will likely need to perform exceedingly well for the Bucks to remain competitive.
Conversely, Devin Booker, taking on a more significant role due to Beal’s absence, has been averaging nearly 9.7 assists over the last five games, benefiting from the increased tempo and ball-handling opportunities. Betting experts anticipate that both Durant and Booker will lead the charge against a Bucks team missing key components.
The betting patterns indicate that the public is leaning towards backing the Suns. They have achieved a strong home record at 22-13 this season and have been extremely effective in recent games, covering numbers in their last five matches at home. Given the Bucks' lack of depth due to injuries and the Suns’ powerful offense, analysts expect a close contest, albeit one likely to favor the Suns.
In summary, the matchup between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns promises to be a critical game for playoff positioning. The Bucks need a win to solidify their playoff chances while the Suns seek to maintain their current momentum.
Experts predict the Suns will come out on top, with a projected score of 115 to 112. This aligns with the ongoing narrative of balancing high expectations around Antetokounmpo's performance against the backdrop of a resilient Suns team powered by Durant and Booker. Fans and bettors alike will be tuned in for this essential matchup, which encapsulates the critical concluding stretch of the NBA season.
