Milwaukee Bucks (22-8) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (17-13)
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers December 29, 2023 – In a highly anticipated NBA showdown, the Milwaukee Bucks, standing at an impressive 22-8, are set to face the Cleveland Cavaliers, who hold a respectable 17-13 record, on Friday. This encounter at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, slated for 7:30 PM ET, is not just a battle of East conference contenders but also a focal point for those seeking the NBA latest free picks.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers December 29, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Friday, December 29, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Giannis Antetokounmpo (PF) vs. Donovan Mitchell (SG)
Giannis Antetokounmpo has been putting up MVP-caliber numbers once again this season. He’s averaging 30.8 points, 11 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.4 steals and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting over 50% from the field. His combination of size, skill and athleticism makes him nearly impossible to stop. If he’s knocking down outside shots, he’s unguardable. However, he has struggled at times against elite defensive teams that wall off the paint.
Donovan Mitchell exploded onto the scene after being traded to Cleveland in the offseason. He’s averaged 27.7 points per game along with 5.5 assists and gives the Cavaliers the dynamic scorer they desperately needed. Mitchell excels at breaking down defenses and hitting tough shots. While he doesn’t have the size or length of Giannis, he should be able to exploit some mismatches against Milwaukee’s defense. His ability to penetrate and kick to open shooters could be the key to victory for Cleveland.
This matchup pits two of the best scorers in the NBA against each other. Whichever player is able to dominate and impose their will offensively could determine the outcome of this game. It should be a showcase of offensive talent between the reigning Finals MVP and one of the most electric young guards in the league.
Digging Into the Numbers: Bucks Bringing Balance
The Bucks have been excelling on both ends of the court this season. They have a top five offense, ranked 3rd in points per game at 124.5. Milwaukee shoots at a high rate from all over the floor – ranking 2nd in overall FG% and 5th in 3-point percentage. They do a great job moving the ball and creating open looks, averaging the 6th most assists per game. The Bucks are also elite defensively, with the lowest opponent FG% and 10th ranked defensive rating. Giannis and Jrue Holiday provide All-NBA level defense.
Cleveland Showing Offensive Firepower
Despite the loss of Jarrett Allen, Cleveland has seen their offense take a big leap this season. They rank 8th in PPG at 112 and have an above average effective FG% of 54%. Donovan Mitchell has infused this roster with the shot creation and isolation scoring they desperately needed. Cleveland is getting solid production from supporting players. The Cavaliers will need to be firing on all cylinders offensively to keep up with Milwaukee’s balanced attack.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined. However, based on current performances and standings, the Bucks might be the favorites. The over/under will depend on both teams’ recent scoring trends.
Milwaukee Bucks Betting Trends
Milwaukee Bucks are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
The Milwaukee Bucks are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Milwaukee Bucks are 6-6 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Bucks’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 12 of Bucks’ 18 last games at home.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
Cleveland Cavaliers are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
The Cleveland Cavaliers are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Cleveland Cavaliers are 7-6 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Cavaliers’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Cavaliers’ 16 last games at home.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and trends, the Bucks appear to have a slight edge, especially with Antetokounmpo’s dominant presence. However, the Cavaliers, led by Mitchell, should not be underestimated, especially with their well-balanced play. For those exploring betting websites, this game presents an intriguing challenge, with the potential for both an outright win and over/under bets.
The Bucks’ offensive firepower against the Cavaliers’ more rounded approach makes this a closely contested matchup. Prop bets could focus on individual performances of Antetokounmpo and Mitchell, especially in points and assists.
Receiving Yards Prop: Bucks 18, Cavaliers 112.
