The Milwaukee Bucks (20-8) are coming into tonight's game off the back of a lopsided 142-101 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Their opponents tonight, the Utah Jazz (17-14), have more momentum coming off back-to-back victories over the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Bucks started the season with a dominant nine-game winning streak. They are 5-2 in their past nine games and have been one of the most impressive teams in all areas of the court this season. The Jazz, meanwhile, have had a more hit-and-miss season thus far. They looked especially impressive in the first of their recent Pelicans wins, scoring 121 to the New Orleans outfit's 100.
Utah Jazz vs. Milwaukee Bucks Match Details
Fixture: Jazz @ Bucks
Date & Time: Saturday, December 17, 08:10 p.m. ET
Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Utah Jazz vs. Milwaukee Bucks Injury Report
On the Jazz's front, shooting guard Johnny Juzang is out due to a wrist injury. Small forward Simone Fontecchio is questionable due to an ankle injury. Point guard Collin Sexton is out due to a hamstring injury.
On the Bucks' end, shooting guard Joe Ingles is out with a knee injury that he intends to return from next week. Point guard Jrue Holiday is likely to play tonight despite being ill. Small forward Khris Middleton is out with a sprained ankle. Center/power forward Serge Ibaka is probable for tonight despite being ill.
Utah Jazz vs. Milwaukee Bucks Betting Odds & Spreads
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Utah Jazz vs. Milwaukee Bucks Starting 5s
Jazz - PG: Mike Conley, SG: Jordan Clarkson, SF: Lauri Markkanen, PF: Jarred Vanderbilt, C: Kelly Olynyk
Bucks - PG: Jrue Holiday, SG: Jevon Carter, SF: Grayson Allen, PF: Giannis Antetokounmpo, C: Brook Lopez
Jazz vs. Bucks Prediction
The Bucks have been a dominant force all season. Assuming their unexpectedly distant 142-101 loss to the Grizzlies proves to be an abberation, they have to be the favorites by a decent margin for tonight. Star point guard Jrue Holiday is likely to return to the court tonight. Coupled with team MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the home-court advantage, the Bucks have plenty to be confident about against their Utah opponents.
The Jazz, meanwhile, have exceeded all expectations this season under new coach Will Hardy. They've proven to be strong in scoring, with Jordan Clarkson and Lauri Markkanen in particular looking dominant on the court of late. However, their defense hasn't always been up to scratch this season. Against the Bucks' full star line-up, that could spell major trouble.
While this game should no doubt be competitive, the Bucks picking up the win seems very likely.
Prediction: Bucks -4 (-110)
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