The Milwaukee Bucks host the Brooklyn Nets at Fiserv Forum on Thursday night. Milwaukee, ranked 5th in the Eastern Conference with a 16-12 record, looks to continue its recent strong form. Brooklyn, currently 12th in the East at 11-18, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances.
These teams last met on Dec. 8, when Milwaukee edged out a 118-113 win in Brooklyn. The Bucks played without Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard in their last two games but still secured back-to-back victories. The Nets have lost eight of their last 10 games, with injuries forcing them to rely heavily on their younger players.
Nets Preview – Nets Struggle for Consistency
The Nets have had a tough season, highlighted by injuries to key players like Cam Thomas and Ziaire Williams. Cameron Johnson has been a bright spot, averaging 22.8 points over his last eight games. Noah Clowney has also stepped up, providing versatility and scoring in recent outings.
Brooklyn’s defense has been a weak point, allowing 110.1 points per game, and their rebounding ranks last in the league. The Nets will need strong performances from Johnson and Clowney to compete, especially against a Milwaukee team that is solid on both ends of the floor.
The Nets’ road record sits at 6-10, and their chances depend on keeping turnovers low and finding consistent scoring options beyond Johnson. The absence of Thomas further complicates their offensive strategy.
Bucks Preview – Bucks Look to Maintain Momentum
Milwaukee has turned its season around after a slow start, winning six of its last seven games. The Bucks have managed to win despite injuries to stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, thanks to strong contributions from Bobby Portis, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez.
Defensively, Milwaukee is holding opponents to 44.8% shooting, one of the best marks in the league. Portis has been crucial in the absence of Giannis, averaging a double-double in recent games. Lopez’s rim protection and Middleton’s scoring add further balance.
The Bucks are 10-4 at home this season and will aim to exploit Brooklyn’s defensive lapses. Even if Antetokounmpo and Lillard remain sidelined, Milwaukee’s depth and experience should give them a significant edge.
Betting Prediction
Milwaukee enters as a 10.5-point favorite, with the total set at 213.5. The Bucks’ recent form and Brooklyn’s struggles make Milwaukee the clear pick to cover the spread. Brooklyn’s lack of depth and defensive issues could lead to another one-sided contest.
Expect Milwaukee to control the pace and keep the total under 213.5, given their defensive strengths and Brooklyn’s scoring struggles on the road.
Pick: Bucks -10.5, Under 213.5
