Celtics Bucks odds picks prediction spread over/under betting line

Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Milwaukee Bucks (2-7) welcome the Boston Celtics (8-2) to Fiserv Forum Sunday. Tip is set for 3:30 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s NBA odds around the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Celtics lead 1-0

The Bucks lost to the New York Knicks 116-94 Friday, closing as a 6.5-point underdog. They have lost 6 of their last 7 games after opening the season with a 15-point road win over the Philadelphia 76ers. The Bucks are just 3-6 against the spread (ATS), and 1-2 ATS at home. Milwaukee lost 119-108 on the road to the Celtics on Oct. 28, failing to cover as a 9-point road underdog.

Boston beat the Brooklyn Nets at home 108-104 Friday, closing as a 13.5-point favorite. The Celtics have dominated in road games (5-1), but given they are typically a sizable favorite they are just 3-3 ATS in those. Boston has scored at least 108 points in every game while allowing 108 or fewer points in 5 of 10 games. The Celtics are led by F Jayson Tatum, who is averaging 30.5 points per game, ranking 2nd in the NBA.

Celtics at Bucks odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of NBA odds. Lines last updated at 8:34 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -190 (bet $190 to win $100) | Bucks +155 (bet $100 to win $155)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -4.5 (-110) | Bucks +4.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 228.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

F Jaylen Brown (hip flexor) questionable
C Kristaps Porzingis (tibialis tendon) out

Bucks

F Giannis Antetokounmpo (patella) probable
G Khris Middleton (ankle) out
G Gary Trent Jr. (back) questionable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

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Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 117, Bucks 110

Moneyline

PASS.

The Bucks are a home underdog here because they simply haven’t figured it out yet this season. They are 1-2 straight up at home and 0-3 straight up as an underdog.

Avoid this play as the Celtics are too expensive to take to win outright.

Against the spread

BET CELTICS -4.5 (-110).

Boston has played on the road 6 times and has double-digit wins in 4 of those, losing 1 and winning the other by 6 points. It is 3-1 ATS in the games immediately after it has failed to cover this season. The Celtics also have the most consistent offense in the NBA, scoring 112 points or more in all but 1 game.

The Bucks cannot say the same, as they have scored more than 110 points in just 3 of their last 7. Milwaukee is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games and is 1-2 ATS at home, having yet to close as a home underdog.

Back CELTICS -4.5 (-110).

Over/Under

BET UNDER 228.5 (-110).

Both teams are trending toward the Under. The Celtics are 4-5-1 O/U and 1-3 O/U in the last 4 games, holding 3 of those opponents to under 104 points.

The Bucks are 3-6 O/U and 1-6 O/U in their last 7games. They are 1-2 O/U at home. Three of Milwaukee’s top 4 scoring weapons are shooting 46.0% from the field or worse.

Considering those trends, back UNDER 228.5 (-110).

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Celtics (62-16) square off against the Milwaukee Bucks (47-31) Tuesday with tip-off from Fiserv Forum set for 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

Season series: Celtics lead 2-1

The Celtics have won 5 straight after a 124-107 push against the Portland Trail Blazers Sunday. F Jayson Tatum sat out as F Jaylen Brown led the way with 26 points. The Celtics have nothing to play for as they’ve locked up the top seed in the East. So be very careful with them the rest of the regular season.

Milwaukee is in 2nd place, but there is a cluster of teams on its heels. Four teams are within 2½ games of the Bucks. They’ve lost 4 straight and are just 3-7 over the last 10. The Knicks took them out Sunday 122-109. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 28 points, 15 boards, 8 assists and 2 blocks.

Celtics at Bucks odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:05 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Bucks +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics -2.5 (-110) | Bucks +2.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 228.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

C Al Horford (toe) questionable
C Kristaps Porzingis (hamstring) questionable

Bucks

F Giannis Antetokounmpo (hamstring) questionable
G Patrick Beverley (ankle) probable
F Khris Middleton (quadriceps) probable

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

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Celtics at Bucks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 117, Bucks 114

Moneyline

So what’s the problem for Milwaukee? It’s the defense, and specifically, its shutdown G Jrue Holiday is now on the Celtics. Milwaukee is top 10 in most offensive categories, but it holds the 18th-ranked defensive rating.

Take the CELTICS -135.

Against the spread

Both of Boston’s wins have been by 3 points, and that’s a little too close for comfort when the ML is still at a suitable price.

PASS.

Over/Under

The Celtics are 8-2 over the last 10, and the Bucks are 6-4 O/U. Two of the 3 meetings have gone Under this year. This total is 8 points below the lowest total this season, which is a bit too much of a market correction.

Take the OVER 228.5 (-105).

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (52-24) will square off against the Milwaukee Bucks (55-21) on Thursday at Fiserv Forum. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Bucks odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics lost 130-111 to the Washington Wizards on Tuesday despite being 10.5-point road favorites. Boston is 3 games behind Milwaukee for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference.

The Bucks covered as 12.5-point road favorites Wednesday in a 149-136 win over the Indiana Pacers. Milwaukee has won 5 of its last 6 games.

The Celtics and the Bucks have split 2 games this season, each winning at home. Boston won 139-118 as a 4-point favorite on Dec. 25 while Milwaukee failed to cover a 9.5-point spread on Feb. 14, winning 131-125 in overtime. The Over 226.5 cashed in both games.

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Celtics at Bucks odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:27 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Bucks -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +2.5 (-115) | Bucks -2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 236.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

C Robert Williams III (knee) questionable
F Grant Williams (illness) questionable

Bucks

Not yet submitted

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 122, Celtics 116

Moneyline

If you’re able to get the BUCKS (-145) at the current odds or better, then there’s some value in taking their moneyline. But if they are available at -155 odds or worse, then taking Milwaukee isn’t worth the risk.

Against the spread

BUCKS -2.5 (-105) is the pick in this highly-anticipated contest between 2 of the top teams in the NBA. Assuming Milwaukee plays some combo of F Giannis Antetokounmpo and/or G Jrue Holiday and F Khris Middleton, then it should be able to take care of business at home.

The Bucks are 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games playing on 0 days of rest.

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 236.5 (-110).

This is a crucial game in the Eastern Conference playoff race and both teams have talented scorers on the court. Both teams are top 13 in offensive rating and this is a pace-up game for Boston.

The Celtics have hit the Over in 4 straight road games and the Over is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings when the Bucks are the home team.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (41-16) and Milwaukee Bucks (39-17) meet Tuesday at Fiserv Forum. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Celtics vs. Bucks odds, and make our expert NBA picks and predictions.

The Celtics covered the spread as 3-point home favorites Sunday with a 119-109 win vs. the Memphis Grizzlies. G Derrick White scored a team-high 23 points for the Celtics, who have won 6 of their last 7 games. Boston is 2-6 against the spread (ATS) in its last 8 road games vs. teams with a winning record at home.

The Bucks covered as 2.5-point favorites Friday with a 119-106 win at the Los Angeles Clippers. F Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with a game-high 35 points as Milwaukee won its 10th straight. The Bucks are 4-0 ATS in their last 4 games.

This is the 2nd meeting this season between the Celtics and Bucks. Boston covered as a 5.5-point home favorite with a 139-118 win as the Over 227.5 total points cashed in the Dec. 25 meeting.

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Celtics at Bucks odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:42 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Celtics +320 (bet $100 to win $320) | Bucks -390 (bet $390 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +8.5 (-115) | Bucks -8.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 225.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

G Malcolm Brogdon (Achilles) probable
G Jaylen Brown (face) out
G Marcus Smart (ankle) out
F Jayson Tatum (illness, non-COVID) doubtful
C Robert Williams III (ankle) questionable
F Grant Williams (elbow) questionable

Bucks

F Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) probable
F Jae Crowder (return to competition reconditioning) out
F Bobby Portis (knee) out

For most recent updates: Official NBA injury report.

Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 119, Celtics 100

Moneyline

PASS.

The Bucks (-390) should win, but there is no need to risk almost 4 times your potential profit on the moneyline when Milwaukee should win by margin vs. the shorthanded Celtics. Bet the spread and/or total instead.

Against the spread

BET BUCKS -8.5 (-105).

NBA teams may sometimes overperform for 1-2 games when a star player is out, but the Celtics just have too many injuries to cover this spread. In addition, Milwaukee will not be underestimating Boston since the Celtics won their Christmas Day matchup by 21 points. Lay the points with the healthier team that will be motivated to win by margin after getting routed in the most recent meeting.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 225.5 (-110).

The Under is 5-1 in Milwaukee’s last 6 games and 6-0 in the Bucks’ last 6 after 3 or more days of rest. The Under has hit in 16 of Boston’s last 21 road games vs. teams with a winning home record and should hit again Tuesday as the Celtics struggle to score without their 2 All-Stars.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 6 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 6 lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 3 seed Milwaukee Bucks (3-2) try to advance to the conference finals when they host the no. 2 seed Boston Celtics (2-3) for Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Tip-off at the Fiserv Forum is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Milwaukee rallied from a 9-point deficit heading into the fourth quarter of Game 5 to stun the Celtics with a 110-107 victory in Boston.

Bucks’ all-world defensive PG Jrue Holiday made 2 phenomenal defensive plays in the final minute vs. Celtics PG Marcus Smart to swing the tide of Game 5.

Bucks’ 2-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo had another legacy game, scoring a game-high 40 points on 59.3% shooting with a game-high 11 rebounds.

These teams are tied 2-2-1 against the spread (ATS) in this series and the total is 2-3 Over/Under (O/U).

Celtics at Bucks odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:46 p.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Celtics +100 (bet $100 to win $100) | Bucks -120 (bet $120 to win $100)
Against the spread: Celtics +1.5 (-112) | Bucks -1.5 (-108)
Over/Under: 211.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

PF Robert Williams III (knee) questionable

Bucks

SF Khris Middleton (knee) out

[tipico]

Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 107, Celtics 101

Money line

TAKE the BUCKS (-120) because the Celtics (+100) haven’t been able to stop Giannis yet in this series and Milwaukee’s role players will step up and hit big shots at home.

At the end of the day, Giannis can put the Bucks on his back and all they need to advance is a couple of 3-pointers out of a PF Bobby Portis, SG Pat Connaughton or SG Grayson Allen.

Boston’s lack of a floor general will be the reason it loses this series. Smart has lapses in basketball IQ and tries to do too much at times, which is something Holiday and Milwaukee’s defense can exploit.

We’ve seen the Celtics lose 2 games in this series with the ball in Smart’s hands at the end of regulation. Boston was 26th in clutch net rating during the regular season at minus-9.5. “Clutch” is defined by games within a 5-point margin inside of five minutes to play.

On the other hand, Milwaukee was 2nd in clutch net rating at plus-15.9 in the regular season and has a plus-4.7 net rating in the clutch for this series.

Finally, the Bucks are outperforming the Celtics in ball security and rebounding and those are the areas that gain possessions for teams. Shooting and free-throw attempt rates come and go, but Milwaukee should score more points if it can continue to win the battle for possessions.

BET the BUCKS (-120) to eliminate the Celtics (+100).

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Against the spread

LEAN to the BUCKS -1.5 (-108) because it should cash, but Milwaukee’s ML is only 15 cents on the dollar more expensive so why fuss with a spread?

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 211.5 (-115) because that appears to be the sharp side since the Over 211.5 (-107) is cheaper. Also, the defensive effort will be maxed out and the pace will probably be slower since this is an elimination game.

But, there’s slight reverse line movement headed south of the total because most of the handle is on the Under (according to Pregame.com and VegasInsider.com) but the Celtics-Bucks total has been lowered from a 212-point opener.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 4 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 4 lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 3 seed Milwaukee Bucks (2-1) host the No. 2 seed Boston Celtics (1-2) Monday for Game 4 of their Eastern Conference semifinals series at Fiserv Forum. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET and the game airs on TNT. Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Milwaukee held off Boston’s fourth-quarter rally for a thrilling 103-101 Game 3 victory Saturday. The Celtics had multiple putback attempts to tie the game at the end of regulation off of Boston PG Marcus Smart‘s missed free throw but failed to convert.

Game 3 was Bucks PF Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s best of the series, scoring a game-high 42 points on 53.3% shooting with 12 rebounds and a game-high 8 assists. Celtics All-Star wing Jayson Tatum scored just 10 points on 21.1% shooting.

Celtics at Bucks odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:30 a.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Celtics -103 (bet $103 to win $100) | Bucks -117 (bet $117 to win $100)
Against the spread: Celtics +1.5 (-115) | Bucks -1.5 (-107)
Over/Under: 211.5 (O: -112 | U: -108)

Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

None

Bucks

SF Khris Middleton (knee) out

[tipico]

Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 109, Celtics 104

Money line

There’s just more value in the BUCKS (-117) because we’ve seen the home team get the benefit of the whistle in these playoffs, role players perform better at home and the NBA is a “make or miss” league.

However, the main reason for the Celtics having a chance to steal Game 3 was their free-throw attempt rate was more than double Milwaukee’s.

The Bucks had a double-digit lead entering the fourth quarter and outperformed the Celtics in 3 of the “four factors”. The free-throw differential should be closer in Game 4 and Milwaukee has an edge in rebounding, ball security and effective field goal shooting.

Typically teams with the best player in the series generally advance in the NBA playoffs and that’s Giannis. The difference-maker in Boston’s first-round series was Tatum neutralizing and even outplaying Brooklyn All-Star wing Kevin Durant.

Tatum isn’t doing that in this series; Giannis’s best performance this postseason was in Game 3. Over the past two postseasons, the Bucks are 12-2 SU at home when Giannis plays and he is averaging 33.2 points on 52.6% shooting and 12.1 rebounds in those games.

TAKE the BUCKS (-117) to win Game 4.

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Against the spread

PASS.

Milwaukee’s ML is only 10 cents on the dollar more expensive than the Bucks -1.5 so there’s no reason to sweat a cover. But, if Milwaukee’s ML goes north of -140 then I’d lay up to -3 with the Bucks.

PASS.

Over/Under

PASS with a “lean” to the Over 211.5 (-112) because the first 3 games of this series have gone Under the total so we are due for a Celtics-Bucks Over.

The Over is pricier so my takeaway is the sportsbooks are trying to entice some Under action and we don’t want to play into the House’s hand.

That said, my prediction isn’t far off the market’s projected score so there’s no value for me in this total.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 3 odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks Game 3 lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 2 seed Boston Celtics (1-1) meet the No. 3 seed Milwaukee Bucks (1-1) Saturday for Game 3 of their Eastern Conference semifinals playoff series at Fiserv Forum. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. ET (ABC). Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Boston bounced back from a double-digit Game 1 loss (101-89) to even the series with a 109-86 blowout victory in Game 2 Tuesday. The Celtics outperformed the Bucks in three of the “four factors” and made a franchise-playoff record 20 3-pointers.

Celtics All-Star wings Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are averaging a combined 46.0 points in this series on 44.9% shooting and 47.4% from 3-point land.

Milwaukee’s 2-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has struggled to find his groove offensively in this series. Giannis has a 39.4% effective field-goal shooting rate (38.5% from the field and 16.7% behind the arc).

The Celtics are 8-1 against the spread (ATS) in their last 9 meetings with the Bucks. The Over/Under is 6-3 in those contests.

Also see: Bet Slippin’ Podcast: NBA conference semifinals Game 3 betting previews

Celtics at Bucks odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at Friday at 11:04 p.m. ET.

Money line (ML): Celtics +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Bucks -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Against the spread: Celtics +1.5 (-107) | Bucks -1.5 (-115)
Over/Under: 212.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

PG Marcus Smart (thigh) probable

Bucks

PG George Hill (abdominal) probable
SF Khris Middleton (knee) out

[tipico]

Celtics at Bucks picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 111, Celtics 106

Money line

GIMME the BUCKS (-130).

They generally respond well to losses and the Celtics are surprisingly bad in tight games.

Milwaukee has the second-best winning rate following losses since the beginning of last season at 118-66 straight up (SU) with a plus-4.8 margin of victory – the Phoenix Suns are first at 135-49 with a plus-6.3 margin.

Boston was 13-22 SU in the “clutch” during the regular season with a minus-9.5 net rating (ranked 26th). “Clutch” is defined by games within a 5-point margin inside of five minutes to play.

On the other hand, the Bucks are 24-17 SU in the “clutch” with a plus-15.9 net rating, ranked 2nd in the NBA during the regular season.

The gap between both teams’ tight-game execution is due to Milwaukee’s 3rd-ranked eFG% in the “clutch” vs. Boston’s 24th-ranked eFG%. A major reason for this is that the Celtics rely on predictable iso-ball with Tatum and Brown down the stretch.

Furthermore, Boston’s supporting players should cool off now that the series is in Milwaukee and the Bucks should get more out of their role players such as C Brook Lopez, C Bobby Portis and SG Wesley Matthews.

Between Milwaukee’s defense, late-game execution and home-court advantage, MILWAUKEE (-130) is my bet to win Game 3.

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Against the spread

PASS since Milwaukee’s ML is only 15 cents on the dollar more expensive than the Bucks -1.5 (-115). So, there’s no reason to sweat a cover here, but I’d bet Milwaukee up to -3 if late money comes in on the Bucks.

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 212.5 (-110).

The first 2 games of this series went Under the total by an average of 24.5 points, so Celtics-Bucks are due for an Over.

Also, the Over has cashed in 7 of the last 10 head-to-head meetings, Boston is 11-8-1 O/U as a road underdog with a plus-5.4 total margin and Milwaukee is 21-19 O/U as a home favorite.

However, more money is on the Under in the betting market, whereas more bets have been placed on the Over, per Pregame.com. Typically, the cash column of the betting splits is the sharp side of the market since professional bettors put up a lot more dough than your average Joe.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (50-30) and Milwaukee Bucks (49-30), jockeying for positioning in the Eastern Conference standings, play a pivotal game Thursday that could decide where each ends up in the playoff picture. Tip-off from Fiserv Forum will be at 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Bucks and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

The Celtics have won their last three games, making a strong push for the No. 2 seed in the East – which they hold with a half-game lead over the Bucks. Boston is 8-2 in the last 10 games, tied for the best record in that stretch. Granted, the Celtics have been favored by at least 8 points in each of their last three, so their opponents haven’t exactly been the toughest. The Bucks pose a major challenge Thursday, though.

Milwaukee was tripped up by the Clippers Friday and Mavericks Sunday, losing to both teams despite being favored. The Bucks bounced back by crushing the Bulls 127-106 Wednesday, easily covering the 6.5-point spread. They’ll have two regular-season games left after this one against the Celtics, visiting the Pistons Friday and the Cavs Sunday.

Celtics at Bucks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:05 p.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics +290 (bet $100 to win $290) | Bucks -380 (bet $380 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +7.5 (-107) | Bucks -7.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 226.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

C Al Horford (back) out
PG Marcus Smart (ankle) probable
SF Jayson Tatum (knee) out
C Robert Williams III (knee) out

Bucks

SG Grayson Allen (hip) doubtful
PF Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) probable

[tipico]

Celtics at Bucks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Bucks 116, Celtics 108

Money line

Even as important as this game is for both teams, the Celtics have a half-game lead over the Bucks and 76ers with one game fewer to play. Sure, they could drop to the No. 4 seed with a loss and a 76ers win, but it’s not the end of the world.

I like the Bucks to win outright at home, knowing the Celtics could opt to rest some of their top players on the second night of a back-to-back. But at -290, I’m going to PASS.

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Against the spread

Going back to the fact that the Celtics could rest some starters as the season winds down, I’m on the BUCKS -7.5 (-115). Even though the Celtics are playing better right now and looked dominant against their win over the Bulls Wednesday, fatigue could set in.

The Bucks are 6-4 ATS in their last 10 and I think they’ll cover again here.

Over/Under

The winning team has scored at least 116 points in each of the last 10 meetings and the Over is 7-3 in those games. But with the threat of rest, I’m taking the UNDER 226.5 (-112) with the line set higher than usual for a matchup between the Bucks and Celtics.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Celtics (16-16) head to the Cream City for a Christmas day game against the Milwaukee Bucks (21-13) at the Fiserv Forum. The tip-off is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Celtics vs. Bucks odds and lines, and make our expert NBA picks, predictions and bets.

Boston has alternated between winning and losing over the last six games with the most recent being a 111-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers as 6.5-point home favorites.

The Celtics are 3-3 straight-up (SU), 3-2-1 ATS and 2-4 O/U over the past two weeks with the 12th-ranked non-garbage time net rating (plus-0.3 points per 100 possessions), according to CleaningTheGlass.com (CTG).

Milwaukee has won back-to-back games over the Houston Rockets 128-106 Wednesday and at the Dallas Mavericks 102-95 Thursday.

The Bucks are 5-3 SU, 4-4 ATS and 3-5 O/U in the last 14 days with the 11th-best non-garbage time net rating (plus-2.3 points per 100 possessions), per CTG.

Boston won and covered its first two meetings of the season with Milwaukee, and either side of the total cashed in those two contests. The most recent was a Celtics’ 117-103 beatdown (Dec. 13) when both teams were at full health.

Celtics at Bucks odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 8 p.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics +230 (bet $100 to win $230) | Bucks -300 (bet $300 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Celtics +6.5 (-107) | Bucks -6.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 220.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Celtics at Bucks key injuries

Celtics

C Enes Kanter Freedom (health and safety protocols) out
C Al Horford (health and safety protocols) questionable
SG Josh Richardson (health and safety protocols) questionable
PF Grant Williams (health and safety protocols) questionable

Bucks

PF Giannis Antetokounmpo (health and safety protocols) probable
PF Bobby Portis (health and safety protocols) questionable

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Celtics at Bucks odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Celtics 115, Bucks 109

Money line

Milwaukee received positive news Christmas Eve when it was announced Giannis would be a game-time decision after clearing the health and safety protocols.

Boston has played much better this season against top-10 teams in net rating. For instance, the Celtics are seventh in non-garbage time net rating (minus-1.3 points per 100 possessions) and 10th in spread differential (minus-0.5 ATS margin) vs. teams top-10 in efficiency differential (CTG).

Whereas the Bucks are 22nd in non-garbage time net rating (minus-6.8 points per 100 possessions) and the second-worst in spread differential (minus-7.5 ATS margin), per CTG.

Also, this could be the one day on the whole NBA calendar that’s popular for money line parlays. So I could see the sportsbooks needing the Celtics to pull off an upset to bust a bunch of money line parlays, which include the Bucks and other big Christmas day favorites.

In fact, according to the Yahoo! Sports app, 92% of the cash is on Milwaukee’s money line at the time of publishing. I’d guess that most of the people betting the Bucks (-205) are doing so with it parlayed with another favorite.

Slight “LEAN” to the CELTICS (+230) because I like Boston plus the points and want to “sprinkle” on the underdog’s money line.

Against the spread

Definitely BET the CELTICS +6.5 (-107) heavier than or instead of Boston’s money line.

But, I’d wait closer till tip-off before making the wager. because if Giannis gets ruled in then Milwaukee could easily balloon up to a 7-point favorite. Obviously, that’s a tough ask on Christmas day but that’s the nature of the business.

Plus the Celtics are one of the few teams equipped to face the Bucks’ double-headed wing monster in Giannis and Khris Middleton. Boston All-Stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown are a legit one-two punch that has the talent to neutralize Giannis and Middleton.

Furthermore, both teams play a high frequency of isolation offense: Boston runs the second-most action out of isolation and Milwaukee runs the fourth-most. But, the Celtics rank higher in offensive efficiency out of isolation plays and the Bucks have the fourth-worst defensive efficiency vs. iso-ball.

Over/Under

“LEAN” to the OVER 220.5 (-110) for a small wager, if at all, because I much prefer the Boston side more than the total in this game.

However, the first Celtics-Bucks meeting this season snapped a six-game streak of Overs played between these two teams. And the total only went Under by 3 points.

Lastly, according to Pregame.com and the Yahoo! Sports app, vastly more money has been wagered on the Under, which has caused the total to be lowered from the 234.5-point opening total. My instinct is to fade such a large line swing.

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Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks NBA odds and lines, with basketball picks, tips and predictions.

Coming out of the trade deadline, the Boston Celtics (21-23) and Milwaukee Bucks (29-14) will meet for the second time this week. The Bucks will once again be at home at Fiserv Forum with the opening tip set for 7:30 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze the Celtics-Bucks odds and lines, with NBA picks and predictions.

Celtics at Bucks: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:15 a.m. ET.

Money line: Celtics +185 (bet $100 to win $185) | Bucks -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
Against the spread/ATS: Celtics +6 (-115) | Bucks -6 (-105)
Over/Under: 234.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Celtics at Bucks: Key injuries

Celtics

SG Evan Fournier (trade) out
C Tristan Thompson (health and safety protocols) out
PF Moritz Wagner (trade) questionable

Bucks

SG Bryn Forbes (toe) probable
SF P.J. Tucker (calf) doubtful

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Celtics at Bucks: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Bucks 125, Celtics 117

Money line (ML)

The Bucks snuck by the Celtics Wednesday night with a 121-119 win, but Milwaukee was up 25 points midway through the third quarter. The score should not have been as close as it was, but the Celtics fought back late and nearly won it with a Daniel Theis 3-pointer.

Bucks PF Giannis Antetokounmpo is healthier now than he was Wednesday night when he scored just 13 points in 33 minutes. SF Khris Middleton carried the Bucks last time around, but that won’t be necessary Friday.

I like the BUCKS (-225) to win outright.

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Against the spread (ATS)

The Bucks didn’t cover the 7-point spread Wednesday and the line has dropped by a point for Friday’s rematch. The Celtics won’t have the newly-acquired Fournier and won’t be at full strength after their trade departures.

Boston is just 5-10 ATS in its last 15 games. I think the BUCKS -6 (-105) will cover and win by at least 7 points.

Over/Under (O/U)

The Over/Under was 231 points Wednesday, which proved to be too low. Tonight, it’s 233.5 points. The Bucks are an elite offense and Boston can get hot when PG Kemba Walker is playing well and attacking the basket.

He should remain aggressive against the Bucks like he was Wednesday night and will help push the total OVER 234.5 (-110) points.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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Also see:

Brad Stevens denies team chemistry issues amid Tristan Thompson rumors (Celtics Wire)
Celtics land Kornet, Wagner, trade Theis, Green, Teague to complete deadline deals (Celtics Wire)

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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