Milwaukee (40-31) at Denver (45-28)
- When: Mar 26 2025, 9:00 PM
- Where: Ball Arena, Denver, CO, USA
- TV: ALT
NBA Betting Preview: Bucks vs Nuggets – Odds, Predictions & Betting Angle
Spread: Denver -6.0 | Total: 224.0
Denver Nuggets Outlook
Denver enters this Western Conference home clash sitting third in the standings, but the margin for error is slim. Just a few games separate them from slipping into the play-in territory, so every win down the stretch matters.
The Nuggets have been without MVP frontrunner Nikola Jokic, who has missed five straight games due to ankle and elbow issues. While Denver has held on with a 2-3 mark in that stretch, his absence has certainly impacted both ends of the floor. However, there’s optimism that Jokic could return during this homestand, and Aaron Gordon is trending toward suiting up after a rest day.
With Jokic out, Jamal Murray has taken over the scoring load, averaging 33.5 PPG across the last two outings. Peyton Watson stepped up in a big way on Monday with a career-best 24 points, showing Denver has depth when called upon.
Despite Monday’s 129-119 loss to the Bulls, the Nuggets have been solid at home and know they can’t afford to drop many more if they want to lock in that top-three seed.
Prediction: Nuggets win and cover -6
Lean Over 224 – especially if Jokic returns
Score Prediction: Nuggets 118, Bucks 109
Milwaukee Bucks Outlook
The Bucks are walking a fine line between staying competitive and staying healthy. At 40-31, they’re just two games behind Indiana for the No. 4 seed in the East but appear to be prioritizing rest and recovery.
Damian Lillard has officially been ruled out indefinitely with a calf-related DVT diagnosis, a major blow to Milwaukee’s offense. Bobby Portis Jr. remains suspended, and Jericho Sims is unlikely to return until the postseason.
That leaves Brook Lopez as the lone true big man available, and coach Doc Rivers has made it clear he won’t overextend his 36-year-old center. The Bucks will lean heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who continues to dominate with 30.2 PPG and 12.0 RPG. But without Lillard and Portis, Milwaukee’s depth is in question.
While Giannis is certainly capable of putting the team on his back, Milwaukee’s recent slide and thin rotation make them a risky side to back on the road—especially in the altitude of Denver.
Prediction: Bucks struggle to keep pace
Avoid the ML or spread on Milwaukee in this spot
Best Bet Summary
ATS Pick: Nuggets -6.0
Total Pick: Over 224.0
Top Angle: Denver at home with a possible Jokic return vs. a depleted Bucks squad = too much firepower for Milwaukee to handle
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
