Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 09/04/2024, 04:45  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 09/04/2024 at 05:46 in NBA Predictions

The Milwaukee Bucks will play host to the Boston Celtics at the Fiserv Forum in the NBA on Tuesday night. The hosts are 47-31 and second in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 62-16 and lead the Conference standings. 

Throughout the NBA season, the Celtics have maintained their status as the league's top team, recognizing the need to sustain their momentum as the playoffs draw near. In their recent matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers, they secured a comfortable 124-107 victory, with Jaylen Brown leading the scoring with 26 points and Kristaps Porzingis contributing a double-double with ten rebounds and 12 points. While the Celtics rank second only to the Indiana Pacers in scoring, averaging 120.8 points per game, they boast the league's best offensive rating at 122.4, outscoring opponents by four points compared to the 116.8 points conceded by the Bucks. Defensively, they hold the fifth spot in the NBA, allowing 109.2 points against per game. Al Horford is questionable due to a toe injury, Jayson Tatum is likely to play despite a knee injury, and Lamar Stevens remains doubtful with a groin injury.

The Bucks, likely to secure the second seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs, recognize the importance of defeating the Celtics to bolster their confidence ahead of potential postseason matchups. However, they enter this game amidst a challenging stretch, having suffered their fourth consecutive loss, most recently against the New York Knicks with a score of 122-109, with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the scoring for Milwaukee with 28 points, while Bobby Portis Jr. contributed 24. Milwaukee boasts the NBA's fourth-ranked offense, averaging 119.7 points per game, while Boston holds the fifth-ranked defense, conceding 109.2 points on average. Additionally, the Bucks rank in the top five in offensive rating with 118.0. Defensively, however, they have room for improvement, currently positioned 22nd overall, allowing 116.8 points per game. Antetokounmpo's availability is questionable due to a hamstring problem, while Khris Middleton and Patrick Beverly are probable despite injuries.