Milwaukee Bucks vs Toronto Raptors Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 05/04/2024, 05:55  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 05/04/2024 at 06:49 in NBA Predictions

The Toronto Raptors will head to the Fiserv Forum to face the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA on Friday night. The hosts are 23-53 and 12th in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 47-29 and second in the Conference standings. 

The Toronto Raptors have been eliminated from playoff contention and appear to have shifted their focus away from the current season. They suffered their 15th consecutive loss, marking their fourth straight defeat by a margin of at least 15 points, as they were heavily defeated 133-85 by Minnesota on the road Wednesday night. Currently, Toronto's squad ranks as the 21st-scoring team in the NBA, averaging 112.3 points per game, while Milwaukee's team ranks 22nd in points allowed per game, conceding 116.8 points. Defensively, Toronto ranks 24th in scoring defense, allowing an average of 118.7 points per game this season. Furthermore, the Raptors are dealing with a number of injuries, notably Scottie Barnes, who is out with a hand injury, and Gary Trent Jr., who is listed as questionable for this contest due to a back issue.

The Milwaukee Bucks are on the verge of securing their playoff berth, although they've encountered some challenges along the way. They suffered their second consecutive loss and fourth in their last five games, following up a road defeat to Washington with a 111-101 loss at home to Memphis. Brook Lopez led the team with 25 points and 10 rebounds on nine of 14 shooting, while Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed 21 points, seven rebounds, eight assists, and five blocks. Milwaukee ranks as the league's third-best scoring team, averaging 120 points per game, just 1.3 points more than the 118.7 points allowed by the Raptors. However, their defense has room for improvement, as they currently rank 22nd in the league in scoring defense, allowing 116.8 points per contest this season. Beauchamp is doubtful due to an ankle injury, while Antetokounmpo (hamstring), Beverley (ankle), and Lillard (groin) are each questionable for this matchup.