Philadelphia (20-31) at Milwaukee (27-23)
- When: Feb 9 2025, 2:00 PM
- Where: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- TV: ABC
Game Preview
Spread: Philadelphia -2.0 | Total: 228.0
Philadelphia is a slight 2.0-point favorite as two Eastern Conference contenders aim to bounce back from disappointing losses. The total is set at 228.0 as the Bucks look to extend their dominance in the series, having won six straight against the Sixers.
Milwaukee Bucks Outlook
Milwaukee (35-20) suffered a frustrating collapse on Friday night, blowing a 21-point lead in a 115-110 road loss to Atlanta. Without Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks looked lost in the second half, and head coach Doc Rivers didn’t hold back in his postgame comments, criticizing the team’s lack of urgency.
The Bucks are just 2-6 since Jan. 27, struggling to find consistency despite their offensive firepower. They have averaged 114.2 points per game, but their defensive issues have been exposed during this recent skid.
Kyle Kuzma made his Milwaukee debut against Atlanta after being acquired from Washington in the Khris Middleton trade. He contributed 12 points and seven rebounds but failed to make an impact in the second half. With Antetokounmpo’s status still uncertain due to a calf injury, the Bucks will need more production from Kuzma and Damian Lillard, who leads the team with 7.5 assists per game.
Milwaukee has been dominant at home (16-8) and has won both meetings against Philadelphia this season. In the Jan. 19 victory, Antetokounmpo dominated with 34 points and 15 rebounds. If he suits up, expect the Bucks to be a tough challenge once again.
Philadelphia 76ers Outlook
Philadelphia (33-21) had a brutal showing on Friday, getting dismantled by Detroit in a game where the Sixers trailed by as many as 34 points. Despite having Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George on the floor together, the team lacked energy, and head coach Nick Nurse was vocal about the disappointing effort.
Maxey remains the Sixers’ most consistent scorer, averaging 27.8 points, while Embiid (24.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG) is still ramping up after missing significant time due to injury. The Sixers have lost four of their last five games and need a statement win to get back on track before the All-Star break.
Philadelphia has struggled offensively, putting up just 109.1 points per game—five fewer than Milwaukee. However, they have been slightly better defensively, allowing 112.9 PPG compared to the Bucks’ 113.1. With Embiid and George available this time, the Sixers will look to snap their losing streak against Milwaukee and keep pace in the Eastern Conference standings.
Betting Prediction & Props to Watch
Spread Prediction: Milwaukee has dominated this matchup, winning six straight, but the uncertainty around Antetokounmpo makes this a tricky bet. If Giannis plays, the Bucks are a strong bet at home. If he’s out, the Sixers have a great chance to snap their skid.
Total Prediction: The last meeting hit 232 total points, and with Philadelphia struggling offensively and Milwaukee’s defense being inconsistent, this could be a high-scoring affair. Lean toward the over 228.0 if Giannis is active.
Player Props:
Tyrese Maxey Over 24.5 Points: Maxey has been the Sixers’ top scorer against Milwaukee, putting up 25 and 37 points in two meetings this season.
Damian Lillard Over 7.5 Assists: With Giannis uncertain, Lillard will likely play a bigger role in facilitating the offense.
Joel Embiid Over 10.5 Rebounds: If Antetokounmpo is out, Embiid could dominate the glass against Milwaukee’s frontcourt.
Milwaukee has been the better team in this matchup historically, but Philadelphia has the edge in talent with Embiid and George back in the mix. If Giannis plays, expect another Bucks win. If not, Philadelphia could finally break the streak and cover the spread on the road.
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- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
