The Milwaukee Bucks wrap up their three-game road trip with a visit to the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night. The game will take place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. Milwaukee is 28-22 and looking to build on their recent win over Charlotte. Atlanta is 23-28 and trying to bounce back after a one-point loss to San Antonio.
This is the third meeting between these teams this season. The Hawks won the first matchup 119-104 in Milwaukee, but the Bucks got revenge in the NBA Cup semifinal with a 110-102 victory. The Bucks have won the last two meetings in Atlanta. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a game-time decision after missing two straight games with a calf injury.
Bucks Preview – Can They Win Without Giannis?
Milwaukee snapped a four-game losing streak by beating Charlotte 112-102 on Wednesday. They did it without Giannis, who is dealing with calf soreness. Damian Lillard led the team with 29 points and 12 assists, while Bobby Portis contributed 23 points and 17 rebounds.
The Bucks have made some moves at the trade deadline, acquiring Kyle Kuzma and Patrick Baldwin Jr. from Washington in exchange for Khris Middleton. They also brought in backup center Jericho Sims from New York. If Giannis remains out, the offense will continue to run through Lillard and Portis.
Milwaukee is 10-14 on the road this season and has struggled defensively, allowing 119.2 points per game. They rank sixth in the NBA in field goal percentage (48.1%) but have issues with turnovers. The Bucks have hit the first-half moneyline in 29 of their last 41 games.
Hawks Preview – Can Okongwu Stay Hot?
Atlanta has lost nine of its last ten games but nearly pulled off a win against San Antonio, losing 126-125. Onyeka Okongwu had a career-best performance, scoring 30 points on 13-of-16 shooting with 12 rebounds and five assists. He has started the last 10 games and replaced Clint Capela at center.
The Hawks made a trade before the deadline, sending De’Andre Hunter to Cleveland in exchange for Caris LeVert and Georges Niang. However, both players are still waiting to be cleared to play. Trae Young continues to lead the offense, averaging 32 points in his last game.
Atlanta ranks second in the league in three-point shooting percentage (38.8%) but struggles defensively, giving up 119.2 points per game. The Hawks are 11-12 at home this season. They have hit the game total over in 44 of their last 67 games.
Betting Prediction
The Bucks are favored by 5.5 points, and the total is set at 242.5. Milwaukee has struggled on the road, but they have won the last two meetings in Atlanta. If Giannis plays, the Bucks should have the advantage inside against a Hawks team missing Capela.
Atlanta has been a strong over team this season, and both squads play at a fast pace. If Young and Okongwu continue their recent form, they can keep this close. Milwaukee should win, but the Hawks could cover. The over is also a strong play.
Pick: Atlanta Hawks +5.5 and Over 242.5
Enjoy this game. We like Atlanta to keep it close, with a ton of points on the board!
