Game 1 of the NBA Finals was a roller coaster for Milwaukee Bucks fans. First, they were given a pleasant, surprising Giannis Antetokounmpo injury update, with the two-time MVP returning to the lineup. Then, the Phoenix Suns completely dismantled them, possibly making many question if Giannis should have taken an extra night to rest. However, tonight is a new night and Game 2 could prove to be an important game in this series. Who will take the win? This NBA betting preview for the Bucks vs Suns Finals matchup will provide game info, betting trends, odds and a prediction for Game 2 of this series.
Milwaukee Bucks vs Phoenix Suns Betting Preview and Prediction | NBA Finals
NBA Finals Game 2 (PHO Leads 1-0)
Milwaukee Bucks (46-26, 20-16 Away) vs. Phoenix Suns (51-21, 30-12 Home)
Date: Thursday, July 8, 2021
Time: 9 pm EST
Venue: Phoenix Suns Arena – Phoenix, AZ
Coverage: ABC
Game 1 started out competitive, though it still felt as though the Suns had a firm grasp on the game. They led by four points after the first quarter, then extended that lead to eight by halftime. However, the third quarter is what decided the game.
Chris Paul came out aggressive in the third quarter. He scored 16 points in that period alone, en route to a sensational 32-point performance in his NBA Finals debut. Paul picked on the Bucks’ defense all night long, with Milwaukee looking confused much too often. Some say basketball is half physical and half mental. The Suns were by far the smarter team on the floor, and they were plenty athletic as well.
Other notable performers were Deandre Ayton (22 points, 19 rebounds), Devin Booker (27 points), Khris Middleton (29 points) and Giannis (20 points, 17 rebounds).
For the Bucks to win tonight, they must make the defensive adjustments before and during the game. They must force Paul to make a decision, then have the bodies in place to defend said decision. For the Suns, they need to make Milwaukee think defensively and continue to contest their shots.
NBA Betting Odds
Moneyline: MIL: (+176) | PHO: (-210)
Spread: MIL: +5 (-110) | PHO: -5 (-110)
Total: 220.5 – Over: (-110) I Under: (-110)
Bucks vs Suns NBA Betting Trends
- Milwaukee is 6-3 against the spread (ATS) in its last nine games.
- The total has hit the over in five of the Bucks’ last six road games against the Suns.
- Milwaukee is 1-7 ATS in its last eight games against Phoenix.
- Phoenix is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 games.
- The total has hit the over in each of the last five Bucks vs Suns games.
- Phoenix is 12-2 straight up in its last 14 games.
Bucks vs Suns Prediction
This NBA prediction uses NumberFire’s probability model. They give Phoenix a 62.0% chance to win Game 1 of this NBA Finals matchup.
This game should play out much more competitive, like the first half in Game 1 was. I don’t believe we will see one team fully take over and separate themselves. That being said, if one team does do that, it will be the Suns again. They have the home-court advantage, the leadership advantage, they are better coached, have more scoring options off the bench and are just as talented as the Bucks.
They match-up incredibly well, which is why they will fly to Milwaukee up 2-0.
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