Milwaukee Bucks (24-10) vs. Houston Rockets (17-15)
On Saturday at Toyota Center, fans and bettors alike are in store for an exciting matchup between Milwaukee Bucks and Houston Rockets at 8:00 PM ET on Space City Home Network. As this matchup unfolds, both teams bring boast impressive 24-10 records; fans and bettors alike eagerly anticipate free NBA picks between these teams as they face-off against one another.
The Bucks have been an impressive force this season, scoring an average of 124.8 points per game and making 50% field goal shots while averaging 14.3 three-pointers per game on offense. Defensively, their defense featured an average of 6.7 steals and 5.6 blocks per game to disrupt opponents’ offense; however, their 13 turnovers per game could prove costly against a powerful Rockets squad.
The Rockets present a formidable challenge to the Bucks in standings. Averaging 113 points per game on 46.7% field goal shooting, their strength lies in rebounding; their average rebound per game exceeds that of Bucks by slightly with 45.1; they excel at creating turnovers with seven steals per game; however their slightly lower three-point shooting percentage (37%) and higher average fouls per game (21.8) could provide openings for Bucks to exploit.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Houston Rockets Game Info
When: | Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET |
Where: | Toyota Center |
TV: | NBCS-PH |
Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the cream of the crop when it comes to dominance and versatility at the power forward position. He utilizes his rare blend of size, skill and athleticism to overpower opponents on a nightly basis. Antetokounmpo excels at attacking the rim, converting high percentage looks near the basket though does need to improve his perimeter shooting. He will need to take advantage of the Rockets’ suspect interior defense.
Alperen Sengun has developed into a highly skilled big at the center spot for Houston, displaying advanced footwork and touch around the paint. He has a bevy of moves in the post and finishes through contact extremely well for his age. Sengun is also an excellent passer for his position, consistently finding cutters and spot up shooters when drawing extra attention. He does lack mobility which could make him vulnerable when switched onto Giannis.
This matchup pits one of the most physically imposing players in the league against a new-age offensive center. Antetokounmpo should dominate the paint while Sengun will counter from the low block and elbows. Whichever big man gets the upper hand down low will go a long way in deciding this contest.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, this matchup presents an intriguing scenario for bettors. The Bucks, with their higher win-loss record and offensive stats, might enter as favorites. However, the Rockets’ home advantage and rebounding ability could turn the tables.
Milwaukee Bucks Betting Trends
The Bucks have performed well against the spread this year, covering in 14 of their last 19 contests. They also have a long track record of success versus Western Conference opponents, going an outstanding 41-15 ATS in their last 56 matchups. Milwaukee is 19-9 toward overs on the road when the total is 220 or higher.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
Houston has posted a losing 16-18-1 ATS record this season and is just 10-15 toward unders at home. However, the Rockets have shown an ability to keep games close, with 15 of their last 22 games featuring a final margin under 10 points. They also play up to high-quality opponents, evidenced by covering spreads in five of their previous seven games as underdogs.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Houston Rockets 1/6/24 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and recent forms, this game promises to be closely contested. The Bucks, with their superior scoring and defensive stats, might have a slight edge. However, the Rockets’ ability to rebound and their home court advantage could level the playing field.
In terms of online betting, the Bucks might be the safer pick, but the Rockets could provide value as underdogs, especially with their ability to keep games close. Prop bets on player performances, especially on Giannis and Sengun, could be interesting. The over/under might lean towards the OVER, given both teams’ recent trends.