The Los Angeles Lakers visit the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday night at Fiserv Forum. Both teams are looking to snap brief losing streaks after recent struggles. The Lakers sit third in the Western Conference at 40-23, while the Bucks hold the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference at 36-28.
The Lakers lost back-to-back games in Boston and Brooklyn after winning eight straight. They were without LeBron James in both defeats, and his absence is expected to continue due to a groin strain. Meanwhile, the Bucks are coming off a tough 115-114 loss to the Pacers on Tuesday night. Milwaukee has dropped three straight games.
Los Angeles Lakers Preview – Shorthanded but Dangerous
Despite missing key players, the Lakers remain a strong team. Luka Doncic has stepped up in James’ absence, averaging 24.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 8 assists in 12 games with the Lakers. Austin Reaves has also increased his production, posting 17 points, 10 assists, and 8 rebounds in their recent loss to Brooklyn.
In addition to James being out, the Lakers are dealing with multiple injuries. Rui Hachimura (knee), Jaxson Hayes (knee), and Dorian Finney-Smith (ankle) are all questionable for this matchup. The Lakers must rely on Doncic and Reaves to manage the offense against Milwaukee’s strong defense.
Los Angeles leads the NBA in field goal percentage in the restricted area, shooting 72.3%. With James out, the Lakers will need continued efficient inside scoring to keep pace with the Bucks.
Milwaukee Bucks Preview – Looking to End Losing Streak
Milwaukee has struggled in recent games, losing three straight. Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to lead the team, averaging 30.7 points and 12.1 rebounds per game. Damian Lillard adds 7.1 assists per game, while Brook Lopez anchors the defense with 1.9 blocks per contest.
In their recent loss to Indiana, the Bucks committed 15 turnovers, which hurt their chances to close out the win. Giannis posted 19 points and 17 rebounds, but Milwaukee’s ball security must improve against a Lakers team that thrives on transition points.
Bobby Portis remains out due to suspension, and Tyler Smith (back) and Chris Livingston (illness) are questionable. Milwaukee’s defense will look to slow Doncic while Antetokounmpo attacks the Lakers’ interior defense.
Betting Prediction
Milwaukee enters this game as a -5.5 favorite with the total set at 224.5. The Lakers’ injuries, including the absence of LeBron James, put them at a disadvantage. However, Los Angeles has kept recent games competitive with strong efforts from Doncic and Reaves.
The Bucks’ recent struggles and turnover issues create concerns for their ability to pull away. The Lakers’ high-efficiency inside scoring could keep this game closer than expected. Expect a competitive contest with the Bucks securing a close win.
Pick: Lakers +5.5 / Over 224.5
Trends to Watch
- Los Angeles: The Lakers have hit the 1H Moneyline in 51 of their last 77 games.
- Los Angeles: The Lakers have covered the 1Q spread in 20 of their last 23 games.
- Milwaukee: The Bucks have hit the 2Q Moneyline in 32 of their last 52 games.
- Milwaukee: The Bucks have covered the 1H spread in 24 of their last 39 home games.
- Head-to-Head: The Lakers have won two straight games against Milwaukee.
What’s Next
The Lakers continue their road trip with key matchups ahead in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Bucks aim to regain their footing in the playoff race as they close in on a top-four seed.
