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Giannis’ Bucks Set to Face Injury-hit 76ers in Season Opener

The fans at Wells Fargo Center will be treated to a game between the Bucks and the 76ers when they take their seats.

(Photo by Getty Images) Giannis Antetokounmpo

Milwaukee (0-0) at Philadelphia (0-0)

  • When: Oct 23 2024, 7:30 PM
  • Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
  • TV: ESPN

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Milwaukee Bucks @ Philadelphia 76ers
Moneyline

Milwaukee Bucks   -165
Philadelphia 76ers   +140

Milwaukee Bucks @ Philadelphia 76ers
Point Spread

Milwaukee Bucks   -3.5 (-115)
Philadelphia 76ers   3.5 (-105)

Milwaukee Bucks @ Philadelphia 76ers
Total

Over   223.5 (-110)
Under   223.5 (-110)

Key Players:
Milwaukee: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Philadelphia: Joel Embiid

Team Stats

Bucks   76ers
0-0 Record 0-0
0-0 Away & Home 0-0
0-0 ATS 0-0
O/U

Last Matchup:
MIL 114-105, March 14th, 2024

Game Preview

The Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers are set to kick off their seasons on Wednesday, offering a fresh start for both teams after disappointing finishes last year. Bettors should pay attention as the two Eastern Conference powerhouses face off, although notable absences could impact betting lines and outcomes.

This will be the third consecutive season these teams meet in their season openers, but both squads are missing key players. The Bucks will lean on their superstar duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, while Khris Middleton remains sidelined as he recovers from offseason ankle surgeries. On the 76ers’ side, Joel Embiid and new addition Paul George are both out, with Embiid expected to miss the first three games. George, who joined Philly on a massive four-year, $212 million deal, will also sit out due to a knee injury.

Embiid, last season’s MVP, averaged 34.7 points and 11.0 rebounds in limited action due to knee surgery. His absence, along with George’s, could create value for bettors eyeing the Bucks to cover the spread, especially with Philly missing two key stars.

While the Sixers’ Tyrese Maxey, last year’s Most Improved Player, will try to keep them competitive, it’s a tough ask without Embiid and George. Maxey averaged 25.9 points and 6.2 assists last season, making him a solid pick for player props, particularly in points and assists. The 76ers are looking to bounce back from a first-round playoff exit last season and are still chasing their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in the Embiid era.

On the Bucks’ side, Giannis and Lillard form a dynamic duo, and bettors can expect high offensive production. Giannis averaged 30.4 points and 11.5 rebounds last season, while Lillard contributed 24.3 points and 7.0 assists in his first year with Milwaukee. Lillard noted that building chemistry with Giannis has been a priority, and the two will look to dominate early, which could make the Bucks an attractive pick in moneyline or player prop bets for scoring.

Milwaukee’s offense was not the problem last season, ranking fourth in the league with 119 points per game. However, their defense ranked 21st, allowing 116.4 points per contest. Bettors should weigh these factors when considering totals or team points, as the Bucks’ high-scoring offense may push games to the over.

Historically, Milwaukee has had the upper hand in this matchup, winning the last four meetings, including all three games last season. The Bucks have either won or tied the season series against the 76ers since 2012-13, making them a strong favorite heading into Wednesday’s game.

With injuries on the Sixers’ side and the Bucks’ offensive firepower, Milwaukee could be the safer bet to start the season strong, especially with Giannis and Lillard leading the charge.

Handicappers Picks – Join for Free

NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Milwaukee 115-110
The Pick: Milwaukee -3½ (-115) & Over 223½
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $357

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