The Milwaukee Bucks head to TD Garden to take on the Boston Celtics in a clash between two Eastern Conference contenders. Boston is off to a fast start this season, while Milwaukee looks to rebound from a rough stretch. Both teams aim to establish themselves early as the season picks up pace.
Milwaukee Bucks Overview
The Milwaukee Bucks come into this matchup with a 1-2 record, having dropped two straight games, including a tough 115-102 loss to the Brooklyn Nets. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to lead the way for Milwaukee, averaging 22 points and 12 rebounds. However, the Bucks are still working to build chemistry with their new roster, including the addition of Damian Lillard, who has struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just 1 of 7 three-point attempts against Brooklyn.
Milwaukee’s offense has shown signs of inconsistency, especially with injuries hampering key contributors. The absence of Rashee Rice has impacted their depth, while the newly acquired Lillard is still finding his rhythm in the offense. The Bucks are also looking for Doc Rivers to tighten up the defensive schemes, as they’ve allowed 115 points per game in their two losses.
Despite their slow start, Milwaukee’s potential remains high. Antetokounmpo’s strong presence and Lillard’s scoring ability offer the Bucks a chance to compete against any team. However, they will need to limit turnovers and improve their shooting efficiency to challenge the red-hot Celtics.
Giannis Antetokounmpo will be key in this game as Milwaukee aims to get back in the win column.
Boston Celtics Overview
The Boston Celtics have jumped out to a 3-0 start, building off last season’s success. Boston’s offensive firepower has been on full display, with the team averaging over 40 points per game in the first quarter alone. Jayson Tatum has led the charge, scoring 37 points in the recent 124-118 win over Detroit. Boston also benefits from a deep roster, with key contributions from Derrick White and Jrue Holiday.
The Celtics’ biggest focus will be consistency, especially after nearly letting a big lead slip away against the Pistons. Coach Joe Mazzulla has emphasized the importance of maintaining intensity for the full game, which will be crucial against Milwaukee. So far, Boston’s balanced attack and defensive efforts have helped them remain undefeated.
Boston’s bench depth has been a bright spot, providing solid minutes when needed. With White, Holiday, and Al Horford supporting Tatum, the Celtics are emerging as one of the most balanced teams in the league. They’ll look to continue their early success and stay undefeated as they return to TD Garden.
Jayson Tatum is the driving force behind Boston’s early dominance and will play a key role in this matchup.
Prediction and Pick
The Celtics come into this game with the momentum of an undefeated start, while the Bucks are still searching for consistency. Boston’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, and their home-court advantage will be a significant factor. Milwaukee needs Lillard and Antetokounmpo to have big games, but they will also need more from their supporting cast to keep pace with Boston.
Expect Boston’s fast pace and depth to create challenges for Milwaukee, especially as the Bucks work through early-season struggles. With the Celtics firing on all fronts, it will be difficult for the Bucks to slow them down unless they can tighten up on defense and limit turnovers.
- Pick: Boston Celtics -9.5
- Prediction: Boston 121, Milwaukee 110
