Milwaukee (26-18) at Portland (17-29)
- When: Jan 28 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Moda Center, Portland, OR, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Preview
Damian Lillard returns to Portland for the second time as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks, but this time the focus is on basketball rather than nostalgia. Milwaukee is favored by 5 points, and the total is set at 229.0. Both teams are in intriguing form, providing bettors with plenty of angles to explore for this matchup.
Milwaukee Bucks Analysis
The Bucks are rolling, having won 9 of their last 11 games, including a dominant 125-110 victory over the Utah Jazz on Monday. Milwaukee shot an incredible 60.5% from the field, with Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo each scoring 35 points. Antetokounmpo added 18 rebounds, continuing his streak of 10 consecutive games with 20+ points, during which he’s averaging 31.4 points and 13.6 rebounds.
Damian Lillard has been on fire as well, scoring 20 or more points in 11 straight games while averaging 27.3 points during that stretch. The chemistry between Lillard and Giannis is improving with each game, making the Bucks one of the league’s toughest teams to stop offensively. Given Portland’s defensive struggles, Milwaukee has a strong chance to cover the spread.
Portland Trail Blazers Analysis
Portland has shown flashes of promise, winning four straight before falling to Oklahoma City 118-108 on Sunday. Anfernee Simons leads the offense and scored 28 points when the Blazers upset the Bucks earlier this month. Scoot Henderson and Deni Avdija have also stepped up recently, with both players posting season-best performances against the Thunder. Henderson had 25 points on five made 3-pointers, while Avdija tallied 28 points, eight assists, and eight rebounds.
Despite these bright spots, Portland faces an uphill battle. Their defensive inconsistencies and reliance on young players like Henderson make it difficult to compete consistently against teams of Milwaukee’s caliber. The Blazers’ recent success came against weaker opponents, and they’re 0-3 ATS in their last three home games against winning teams.
Key Matchups & Trends
Lillard & Giannis vs. Blazers Defense: The dynamic duo of Lillard and Giannis is firing on all cylinders, making it tough for Portland to contain both players.
Portland’s Young Core: While Scoot Henderson and Anfernee Simons are capable of putting up points, their inexperience could lead to turnovers and defensive lapses against Milwaukee’s veterans.
Past Matchup: Portland edged Milwaukee 105-102 earlier this month, but Lillard had an off night with just 16 points on 5-of-15 shooting. Expect a much stronger performance from him this time around.
Betting Predictions
Milwaukee’s firepower and recent form make them the clear favorites in this matchup. Lillard will be motivated to put on a show in his return to Portland, while Giannis’ dominance in the paint will be difficult for the Blazers to counter. Portland has some exciting young talent, but their lack of defensive consistency will likely cost them against the Bucks.
Best Bets:
Milwaukee -5.0 (The Bucks’ offensive efficiency and improved chemistry give them the edge to cover.)
Over 229.0 (Both teams have shown they can score, and Portland’s defense will struggle to keep the Bucks in check.)
Final Score Prediction: Milwaukee 120, Portland 111
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
