The 2024-25 NBA season Day 2 will witness an exciting matchup between two Eastern Conference contenders: the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia 76ers. The game is set for Wednesday night.
Injury Updates:
The Bucks will be without Khris Middleton due to ankle issues, while the 76ers are missing both Paul George and Joel Embiid, which raises concerns about their championship aspirations. Tyrese Maxey's status is also uncertain.
Offseason Moves:
Philadelphia made significant roster changes, extending Tyrese Maxey's contract, re-signing Kelly Oubre, and adding Andre Drummond and Caleb Martin. Milwaukee bolstered its lineup by signing Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright.
Both teams are looking to keep their star players healthy, especially since Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid dealt with injuries during the previous season.
Betting Odds and Details
Date: Wednesday, October 23
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Venue: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia
TV: ESPN
Spread: Bucks -3.5 (-110) | Sixers +3.5 (-110)
Moneyline: Bucks: -162 | Sixers: +136
Total: 224 (Over -110 / Under -110)
Key Players to Watch
Milwaukee Bucks
Damian Lillard: In his first season with the Bucks, Lillard averaged 24.3 points per game, despite shooting 42.4% from the field. With Middleton out, Lillard and Giannis will need to step up their scoring to lead Milwaukee.
Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese Maxey: Coming off a season where he averaged 25.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 6.2 assists, Maxey will play a pivotal role for the 76ers in the absence of George and Embiid.
Prediction and Pick
Given the injury situation for the Sixers, I favor the Bucks to win this matchup. Milwaukee managed to secure 49 wins last season, even with Middleton often sidelined. The absence of key players for Philadelphia could make it difficult for them to contain Giannis and the newly signed Trent Jr. and Prince.
Pick: Bucks -3.5 (-110)
Season Outlook
The Bucks aim to bounce back after an early playoff exit last season, while the 76ers hope to improve upon their performance after being eliminated in the first round. Both teams are determined to leave last year's disappointments behind and strive for a deeper playoff run this season.
How to Watch
Watch: Live on ESPN or stream via Fubo (free 7-day trial available).For those facing broadcast restrictions, consider using a VPN like NordVPN, which offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
NBA Results till now
Boston Celtics defeated New York Knicks 132-109
LA Lakers defeated Minnesota Timberwolves 110-103
