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Bucks vs. Hawks: 2024 NBA Cup Semifinals Preview

Bucks vs. Hawks: 2024 NBA Cup Semifinals Preview

T-Mobile Arena

The NBA Cup is nearing its conclusion, and this Saturday, the finalists will be decided. In the East, the spot is being contested by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks and Trae Young’s Atlanta Hawks.

The Bucks advanced to this stage by eliminating the Orlando Magic with a 114-109 victory, led by Giannis’s 37-point performance.

Meanwhile, the Hawks continued to prove they were the New York Knicks’ nightmare, defeating them 108-100 at Madison Square Garden. Young contributed 22 points and 11 assists in the win.

Bucks vs. Hawks betting odds and Info

Bucks 1.639Hawks 2.545
When?Saturday, December 14 at 4:30 pm ET, 3:30 pm CST, 2:30 pm MT, and 1:30 pm PT
Where?T-Mobile Arena
Where can I watch it?NBA League Pass

Why bet on the Bucks?

After a rough start to the season, the Milwaukee Bucks have regained their form, thanks to a standout performance from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is aiming for a second championship with his team following their NBA title in 2021.

To reach this semifinal, the Bucks defeated the Orlando Magic 114-109 at home, with Giannis scoring 37 points and Damian Lillard contributing 28.

Lillard has notably improved his performance this year, increasing his scoring from 24.3 to 25.8 points per game while also averaging 7.6 assists and 4.4 rebounds. If this veteran point guard maintains his form, the Bucks can find some relief from relying solely on Antetokounmpo.

Giannis is posting his best offensive numbers yet, averaging 32.7 points on an impressive 61% shooting. He also adds 11.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game, making his campaign worthy of MVP consideration, aiming to add to his 2019 and 2020 accolades.

Beyond these two stars, the Bucks benefit from the experience of Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, and Bobby Portis, which stands out as their primary strength in the hunt for a spot in the final.

Currently, the only injury concern for the team is Chris Livingston, though he has not been ruled out for the matchup against the Hawks.

Why bet on the Hawks?

The Atlanta Hawks reached their peak performance in 2021 when they made it to the Eastern Conference Finals, ultimately losing to the Bucks. Since then, the team has experienced years of mediocrity, but this season presents a significant opportunity for a resurgence.

In their last game, the Hawks delivered a major blow to the Knicks, securing a 108-100 win at Madison Square Garden. Trae Young led the way with 22 points, 11 assists, and five rebounds.

Supporting Young were De’Andre Hunter, with 24 points, and Jalen Johnson, who added 21.

Young is averaging his lowest scoring output since his rookie season, with 21.0 points per game. However, he’s compensating with a career-high 12.2 assists per contest. While he remains the team’s cornerstone, the Hawks’ defense has notably improved, thanks to Dyson Daniels, who contributes 3.0 steals per game.

Jalen Johnson has also made a significant leap, increasing his stats from 16.0 to 19.8 points, along with 10.1 rebounds and 5.6 assists per game, making him a key factor in Atlanta’s success.

For this matchup, the Hawks will be without center Cody Zeller, their only injured player.

Final Betting Analysis: Bucks vs. Hawks

In their last five matchups, the Bucks have defeated the Hawks four times, although Atlanta claimed victory in their most recent meeting by 119-104.

The numbers at Gambyl Exchange have the Bucks as favorites with a moneyline of 1.639. Meanwhile, the Hawks have 2.545.

The Milwaukee Bucks are the favorites and are expected to secure the victory, with Giannis Antetokounmpo leading them to a spot in the final. The Atlanta Hawks lack the depth of talent needed to contend for this title.

Go for a win for the Bucks. If you bet $100 at 1.639, you will gain $63 for a total payout of $163.

Bucks vs. Hawks Betting Pick: Bucks

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