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Hawks Host Bucks in MLK Day Matchup

Hawks host Bucks on MLK Day. Spread, total, and expert betting prediction for Monday afternoon.

(Photo by Getty Images) Jalen Johnson
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Milwaukee (17-24) at Atlanta (20-24)

  • When: Jan 19 2026, 1:00 PM
  • Where: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA, USA
  • TV: Peacock

Milwaukee vs Atlanta Preview & Prediction

Spread: Atlanta -2.5
Moneyline: Atlanta (-135)
Total: 231.5

Milwaukee Bucks Betting Outlook

Milwaukee heads into Atlanta searching for answers after a rough stretch that has quickly knocked them down the Eastern Conference standings. The Bucks have dropped three straight games and have not looked competitive in their most recent losses, falling behind early and never recovering. Defensive lapses and cold shooting have turned small problems into blowouts.

Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be the focal point, but even his dominance has not been enough to cover up the team’s flaws. Ball movement has stalled, outside shots are not falling, and defensive rotations have been slow. When Milwaukee struggles to hit open looks, the effort on the other end often slips as well.

Despite the skid, the Bucks are not in panic mode. The season is far from over, but this is a critical spot to stop the bleeding. Playing on the road against a team dealing with its own issues gives Milwaukee an opportunity to reset. The concern is whether they can do it quickly enough, especially with confidence clearly shaken after back to back lopsided losses.

Atlanta Hawks Betting Outlook

Atlanta is dealing with its own growing pains, but the circumstances are slightly different. The Hawks are integrating new pieces into the rotation while trying to stabilize their identity. That transition has not been smooth, and the results have been ugly, with three straight losses by wide margins.

Offensively, Atlanta has struggled to find rhythm. Familiar sets are being adjusted, and timing has been inconsistent. Jalen Johnson has cooled off during this stretch, which has taken away one of the team’s most reliable scoring options. Defensive intensity has also dipped, leading to opponents scoring comfortably.

Still, this is a meaningful home game for Atlanta. The Hawks traditionally rise to the occasion on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and playing in front of a motivated crowd adds energy. As a 2.5 point favorite, Atlanta is being trusted to take advantage of a Milwaukee team that is reeling.

Betting Angle and Prediction

Both teams are desperate, but Atlanta’s home court and familiarity with this stage give them a slight edge. Expect a faster pace and improved effort on both sides, but defense is likely to remain inconsistent.

Milwaukee should be more competitive, yet Atlanta’s urgency and crowd support could be the difference in a game that stays tight throughout.

Final Score: Hawks 118, Bucks 112
Lean: Atlanta -2.5
Total: 
Under 231.5 

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