Stadium: Fiserv Forum.
Game 5. The score in the series is 2-2.
The Bucks dropped the 4th game of the series against Atlanta, losing by 22 points. Yes, Giannis Antetokounmpo was injured early in the second half. But Milwaukee played badly even before the leader’s injury, so the Hawks could not count on Trae Young. In Game 5, Mike Budenholzer’s team cannot falter. Will the Bucks be able to make up for the loss?
Milwaukee had a right to lose, but not as bad
Nothing catastrophic happened for the Bucks in terms of prospects of winning the series against Atlanta. A 2-2 lead ahead of the home game leaves an excellent chance for eventual success. However, the offence can’t help but be wary. 88 points scored in a meeting with a league defence that is far from the best.
Not to put it down to Giannis’ injury, but the fact is that with the Greek out injured and leaving the floor for the rest of the game, the Bucks picked up their pace and came within 10 points of their opponent. It remains to be seen whether Antetokounmpo will be able to recover for the next game. But even if Giannis does not play, his loss will no longer be sudden, meaning the Bucks will initially prepare their game plan based on other conditions. There is no doubt about the potential of Mike Budenholzer’s team. But will Milwaukee be able to unlock it?
Atlanta were awesome without Trae Young
The Hawks’ phenomenal leader Trae Young still failed to participate in the previous game. Even without Young, as good as he has been in the playoffs, Atlanta’s Nate McMillan has been more than competitive. The coach is worth noting separately, but there’s no shortage of personal honours for the player here either. Trae Young was replaced by veteran Lou Williams and had a great game. Just in 35 minutes, Williams achieved 21 points, 7 of 9 assists, 8 assists per loss. He hasn’t played this much in the playoffs.
Kevin Huerter did a great job assisting Lou. The young player may have given away the best playoff game of his career. He scored 15 points, but more importantly made 7 assists and didn’t allow a single loss. Thanks in large part to Lou and Huerter, the Hawks didn’t notice Young’s absence and were very effective on offence.
Expert Betting Tips
Whether Giannis plays or not, whether or not Trae Young can help his opponent, the Bucks simply have to win the upcoming game. Why beat Brooklyn in a tough series then, if you are now going to lose to Atlanta? It is unlikely that the Bucks will be able to show anything offensively for the second game in a row. It’s also hard to assume that Lou Williams and Kevin Huerter will play at such a prohibitive level again. We believe that the Bucks will come out ahead in the series.
Betting options:
- Milwaukee to win with a handicap (-4.0) for 2.19;
- Milwaukee’s Individual Total Over 111.5 for 2.23;
- Milwaukee to win and Total Over 216.5 for 3.30.