Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies: Predictions, Starting Lineups (2/15/24)
The Milwaukee Bucks (35-20) take on the Memphis Grizzlies (19-36) this Thursday (2/15/24). Get Bucks vs. Grizzlies moneyline and spread odds, as well as predictions, starting lineups, injuries, and key matchups below.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies Prediction
The best bet is a same game parlay (-110 DK) featuring Vince Williams Jr. alternate over 3.5 assists, Giannis Antetokounmpo 25+ points, and Bucks moneyline.
Since Ja Morant and Desmond Bane both went down with injuries, Vince Williams Jr. has notched at least four assists in 11 of 15 games and averaged 8.1 potential assists per game (via NBA.com). He is essentially Memphis’ top playmaker at the moment, and he should rack up assists against a Bucks defense that ranks 17th in Defensive Rating.
Memphis has also given up the most restricted area field goal attempts per game since the injuries. Giannis Antetokounmpo paces the NBA in these attempts per game, and he owns a monstrous 78 field goal percentage here too.
Finally, the Grizzlies rank dead last in Offensive Rating post Morant and Bane injuries. Although Williams Jr. can orchestrate at a decent level, they simply don’t have the necessary advantage creators or off-the-dribble scorers to produce a functional offense. Although their defense has been effective, it will be extremely difficult to keep pace with Milwaukee’s explosive offense, which is 5th in Offensive Rating. Overall, the Bucks should comfortably take this game.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies Prediction: SGP (-110 DK) – Vince Williams Jr. over 3.5 assists & Giannis Antetokounmpo 25+ points & Bucks moneyline
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Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies Best Odds
The Bucks enter this contest as 11.5 point favorites, which can be attributed to the Grizzlies’ injuries. Milwaukee is 8-12 against the spread as road favorites, while Memphis is 8-10 against the spread as home underdogs.
For the Grizzlies’ +500 moneyline to be profitable in the long run, they need to win here at least 17 percent of the time.
Milwaukee Bucks Starting Lineup
PG: Damian Lillard
SG: Malik Beasley
SF: Jae Crowder
PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo
C: Brook Lopez
Memphis Grizzlies Starting Lineup
PG: Luke Kennard
SG: John Konchar
SF: Vince Williams Jr.
PF: Jaren Jackson Jr.
C: Santi Aldama
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies Injuries
Khris Middleton is out for Milwaukee, but Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard are probable. On the other side, Memphis lacks Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Marcus Smart. In addition, Derrick Rose, Brandon Clarke, Jake LaRavia, and Scottie Pippen Jr. hold questionable tags.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Memphis Grizzlies Key Matchups
Game Context
Of the three legs, Antetokounmpo to score 25+ points is actually the most worrisome. First, the serious blowout potential in this matchup could slash his minutes and thus reduce scoring opportunities. Second, he may be mentally checked out against a non-threatening Grizzlies squad with the much-needed All-Star break starting tomorrow. If he can rally his energy tonight and relentlessly attack the basket, then this same game parlay has a great chance of cashing.
