On the second leg of a back-to-back for Philadelphia, the 76ers visit Milwaukee Thursday after the Bucks just lost Giannis Antetokounmpo to a low-grade groin strain. The two-time MVP exited Monday’s loss to Cleveland and is expected to miss one-to-two weeks, dramatically shifting the dynamic of a meeting that has produced several memorable battles in recent years. Philadelphia enters at 8-6, while Milwaukee sits at 8-7, and both teams are struggling to find consistency.

These clubs have split several tight contests over the past two seasons, but with Giannis sidelined and the 76ers expecting to have Paul George and Joel Embiid in action tonight (after they both missed last night), the balance of power feels different heading into Wednesday night.

Philadelphia is a 2.5-point favourite to win on the NBA odds, with the total set at 224.5.

76ers vs. Bucks NBA Betting Odds

Despite the loss at home on Wednesday, down three key players mind you, Philadelphia continues to be one of the league’s best teams against the number, sitting at 9-4-1 ATS heading, while posting an 7-7 record on totals. Milwaukee, meanwhile, sits at 7-8 ATS and 8-7 to the over. The 76ers will be on the second night of a back-to-back after facing the Raptors, but the Bucks’ mounting injuries may offset the rest and home advantages.

Giannis’ absence also removes more than 31 points, 10 rebounds and nearly seven assists per game from a team that already ranked just 16th in offensive rating and 22nd in defensive rating with him on the floor.

Philadelphia 76ers

Philadelphia has weathered early-season adversity and could start to stabilize here as its star power returns. Tyrese Maxey continues his excellent play, averaging 32.5 points per game while dictating tempo – getting to his spots and taking his shots with unwavering confidence. Quentin Grimes and rookie VJ Edgecombe are each producing between 15.5 and 16.8 points per game, but the Sixers’ depth has been knocked as it was just reported Kelly Oubre Jr. will be out until at least December 4.

Paul George is back in the lineup, adding a veteran two-way presence, while Joel Embiid has played to near-20-point form, despite being in and out of the lineup to start the season. 

Philadelphia ranks seventh in offensive rating and sits inside the top ten in offensive rebounding, which should be a decisive factor against a Bucks team that is last in the league in overall rebounding percentage.

Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis’ groin strain leaves the Bucks without their offensive engine, defensive anchor and the player around whom the entire roster is constructed. With Antetokounmpo out, Milwaukee’s top scorer becomes point guard Ryan Rollins, and he is the only other Buck averaging more than 13 points per game.

The Bucks were already struggling on both ends, and they also sit 27th in opponent free-throw rate, which is troubling considering Philadelphia is 10th in percentage of points scored at the line. 

Without Giannis protecting the paint, the Bucks may struggle mightily to contain Philly’s backcourt off the dribble.

NBA Prediction: Who Will Win 76ers vs. Bucks?

This is a difficult matchup for a Bucks team that was struggling defensively even before the Giannis injury. Philadelphia is deeper and far more dynamic offensively, and its strength on the offensive glass should produce ample second-chance scoring opportunities.

Milwaukee will need career performances from multiple role players to keep this close, and the Bucks may have trouble generating enough scoring to push this total high. Expect the Sixers to pick up the victory, 114-106.

76ERS

Away

114

BUCKS

Home

106

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Predictions

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