The Milwaukee Bucks are set to play against the Philadelphia 76ers in an upcoming NBA game. Milwaukee has a strong winning streak against Philadelphia, having won their last seven encounters, including all three games played earlier this season. Furthermore, the Bucks have been a good bet against the spread in these matchups, covering in five of the last seven games and going 6-1 against the spread during their seven-game winning streak.
In the 2024-25 NBA season, the Bucks` record against the spread is 37-38-1, while the 76ers` record is significantly worse at 26-50. For the Bucks, Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to play despite a foot issue. However, the 76ers are facing numerous injuries with key players like Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey, among others, listed as out for the game.
The game is scheduled to be held at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. The betting odds favor Milwaukee, who are currently 11.5-point favorites according to consensus odds. The over/under for the total points in the game is set at 228.5, which has increased from an initial opening line of 224.5. It`s advisable to consult expert NBA predictions before placing any bets on this game.
Bucks` Potential to Cover the Spread
Philadelphia`s poor record against the spread in the NBA is a key factor suggesting Milwaukee could cover. The 76ers have struggled against the spread recently, losing their last eight games in this regard. They also hold the worst home record against the spread in the league and are 0-3 against the spread when playing Milwaukee this season. Conversely, the Bucks have been performing well against the spread in their recent games, covering in five of their last seven as they adapt to playing without Damian Lillard.
In their most recent game, the Bucks achieved a franchise record by shooting 68.9% from the field in a victory over Phoenix. This impressive shooting performance was not only a team record but also the highest field goal percentage achieved by any NBA team since March 1998. Notably, all eight Bucks players who played in that game shot over 50%. This offensive display came against a Suns defense ranked in the middle of the league. Given that the 76ers have the league`s worst field goal percentage allowed, the Bucks might be poised for another highly efficient scoring game.
76ers` Chances to Cover the Spread
Despite a loss to the New York Knicks in their last game, the 76ers have seen strong performances from players like Quentin Grimes. Grimes scored 26 points, along with five assists, four rebounds, and three steals, taking advantage of increased playing time. Since joining Philadelphia, Grimes has averaged 22 points per game, shooting efficiently from the field and from three-point range.
Justin Edwards, a local Philadelphia player who recently had his contract upgraded, has also been a significant contributor for the 76ers. Edwards has consistently scored in double digits in recent games, averaging nearly 17 points while shooting over 40% from three-point range in his last 10 games. The injuries within the 76ers team have provided opportunities for younger players like Grimes and Edwards to establish themselves. It is also worth considering that the Bucks have a less favorable record against the spread when they are heavily favored by 12 or more points, going just 1-3 in such situations.
Making Picks for Bucks vs. 76ers
Statistical models predict a close game with a total score potentially going under the set over/under of 228.5 points, projecting around 224 combined points. These models also suggest a strong probability for one side of the spread to hit. For detailed NBA picks and predictions, it`s recommended to consult expert sports betting analysis.
Jasper Hawthorne