Milwaukee Bucks vs Cleveland Cavaliers Preview, Odds, Betting Tips and Prediction
The Milwaukee Bucks vs Cleveland Cavaliers matchup is one of nine games scheduled for Sunday. The Bucks have started the season strong with a perfect 2-0 record, while the Cavaliers sit at 1-1. These two Eastern Conference rivals have faced each other 237 times in the regular season, with Milwaukee holding a 132-105 edge. Last season, Cleveland swept the Bucks 4-0 on their way to securing the best record in the East.
Matchup Overview
So far, Milwaukee has enjoyed an easier schedule, which has helped them kick off the season with two wins. They opened with a 133-120 victory over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, followed by a 122-116 win against the Toronto Raptors on Friday—both teams currently in rebuild mode and not considered title contenders.
Sunday’s game against Cleveland, therefore, serves as a significant benchmark for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. In Friday’s game, Antetokounmpo impressed with 31 points and 20 rebounds.
The Cavaliers come into this matchup riding a 131-124 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. Donovan Mitchell led the team with 35 points, supported by solid contributions from Jarrett Allen and Sam Merrill, who each scored 22 points. Cleveland’s season began with a tough 119-111 loss to the New York Knicks.
Injury Updates
- Milwaukee Bucks: Kevin Porter Jr. remains out with a left ankle sprain. Giannis Antetokounmpo is probable after dealing with a toe injury, while Kyle Kuzma is questionable due to an ankle issue.
- Cleveland Cavaliers: Darius Garland is sidelined with a toe injury, Max Strus is out due to a foot ailment, and De’Andre Hunter is questionable with a knee injury.
Starting Lineups
| Milwaukee Bucks | Cleveland Cavaliers |
|---|---|
| PG: AJ Green | PG: Donovan Mitchell |
| SG: Ryan Rollins | SG: Sam Merrill |
| SF: Gary Trent Jr. | SF: Jaylon Tyson |
| PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo | PF: Evan Mobley |
| C: Myles Turner | C: Jarrett Allen |
Betting Odds
- Money Line: Bucks +212, Cavaliers -224
- Spread: Bucks +6.5 (-110), Cavaliers -6.5 (-106)
- Total Over/Under (O/U): Over 235.5 (-122), Under 235.5 (-113)
Note: Odds are subject to change closer to game time. The odds listed are based on information available at the time of writing.
Betting Tips
- Giannis Antetokounmpo is favored to score over 30.5 points.
- Donovan Mitchell is projected to score more than 28.5 points.
- Myles Turner is expected to make fewer than 1.5 three-pointers.
Prediction
The oddsmakers favor the Cleveland Cavaliers to secure a home victory. This prediction appears reasonable given the scrutiny surrounding Milwaukee’s roster during the preseason. With no definitive second star alongside Giannis, the Cavaliers should be able to cover the spread in what is expected to be a competitive game. Additionally, the total points scored may stay under 235.5.
For bettors looking for value, taking the Cavaliers and the under on the total points could be the strategic play in this Sunday showdown.
