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The Knicks travel to Milwaukee on Tuesday night to play Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks.
Both teams look to rebound following losses on Sunday evening, as New York fell to Miami on the road and Milwaukee nearly upset Cleveland.
New York has dominated this series lately, winning its last five games against Milwaukee. Jalen Brunson and the Knicks look to extend it to six in this early-season matchup.
The Blue and Orange are a slim 2.5-point betting favorite in this one, with the Over/Under sitting at 229.5 points, per FanDuel.
Knicks vs. Bucks odds, prediction
A common talking point in many NBA circles to start the season was Antetokounmpo reportedly being open to a trade to the Knicks if Milwaukee decided to part ways with him.
After the Bucks released Damian Lillard over the summer, many believed Antetokounmpo was out the door as well.
However, Ex-Pacer Myles Turner was added to the roster in the offseason, replacing veteran Brook Lopez in the starting lineup.
The two-time MVP recommitted to Milwaukee before opening night and is now averaging 36 points, 16 rebounds, and 7 assists per game to start the season.
While this Bucks’ roster lacks star power, it does have solid depth at the guard and wing positions, allowing the 2021 Finals MVP to operate more as a point forward.
Antetokounmpo has thrived against New York, scoring 20-plus in 14 consecutive games against the Knicks, dating back to 2017.
Giannis Antetokounmpo enters year 13 as a member of the Milwaukee Bucks. Getty Images
Although Antetokounmpo has seemingly had his way with the Knicks, the same can be said of Brunson, whose thrived against Doc Rivers’ pick-and-roll drop coverage.
The Villanova product recorded 44 points, five rebounds, and six assists against the Bucks in their last meeting, leading the Knicks to a 140-106 win. In his last five games against the Bucks, Brunson has averaged 35.2 points, 7.2 assists, and 4 rebounds.
In Mike Brown’s new pace-and-space offense, the point guard serves as a focal point. I believe Brunson will look to score and distribute effectively. Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby have shown the ability to knock down shots once Brunson kicks it out following a paint touch.
Betting on the NBA?
I’m zeroing in on Brunson’s points + rebounds + assist prop at 37.5. Since Jrue Holiday departed, the Bucks’ weak spot has been perimeter defense. Last season, point guards averaged 24.3 points per game and 2.8 3-pointers made against the Bucks.
I expect Brunson to take advantage of a matchup opposite Bucks’ guards Ryan Rollins, Cole Anthony, and AJ Green.
The Play: Jalen Brunson OVER 37.5 PTS + REB + AST (-118, FanDuel)
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Mike Turay is a sports journalist and editor who closely follows the NBA, NFL, college sports and UFC. He has demonstrated expertise in both NBA and NFL player prop bets for nearly three years. Mike is also highly knowledgeable about the sportsbook offer landscape, frequently trying and reviewing the latest apps and sites.