The No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference in the Milwaukee Bucks (53-9) will take on the No. 1 seed in the West in the Los Angeles Lakers (47-13) Friday night. Tip-off for this game at Staples Center is set for 10:30 p.m. ET. We analyze the Bucks-Lakers sports betting odds and lines, with NBA betting advice and tips around the matchup.
Bucks at Lakers: Key injuries
Bucks
- PG George Hill (groin) questionable
Lakers
- SG Alex Caruso (hamstring) probable
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Bucks at Lakers: Odds, lines, picks, and betting tips
NBA odds courtesy of BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 11:10 a.m. E.T.
Prediction
Bucks 118, Lakers 114
Moneyline (ML)
The Lakers (-115) are small home favorites over the BUCKS (-106) in what could be an NBA Finals preview. While the Lakers have won nine of their previous 10 games, it’s hard to bet against the Bucks, who have beaten the Lakers in six straight games. It’s also worth noting the Bucks have won 11 of their last 13 road games and are an incredible 25-6 on the road this season. Expect this game to be close throughout, but for the Bucks to eventually steal the win in Los Angeles.
Line/Against the Spread (ATS)
The Lakers (-1.5, -106) are laying less than a bucket against the BUCKS (+1.5, -115). While the Lakers struggled against the spread earlier this season, they are an impressive 4-1 against the spread in their last five games. Meanwhile, the Bucks continue to cruise in the East as they are 10-4 against the spread in their last 14 games despite some monstrous lines. Considering how even these teams are, take the 1.5 points and the Bucks on Friday night.
Over/Under (O/U)
The Over/Under for this potential NBA Finals matchup is set at 227.5, which makes sense given that each offense is ranked inside the top-seven in scoring. The Bucks lead the NBA in points per game, averaging over 119 points this season. It’s also important to note each side ranks inside the top-five in scoring defense, allowing about 107 points per game. Look for this to be a fast-paced game with the OVER 227.5 (-110) hitting in Los Angeles.
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