After a dominant performance in Game 2, the Milwaukee Bucks went to Miami for Game 3 of their series with the Heat well-positioned to take a 2-1 series lead even without Giannis Antetokounmpo.
But that didn't quite come to pass, as the Heat took control of Saturday's contest with a 19-0 run across the first and second quarters. Thanks to 30 points from Jimmy Butler and a timely 20-piece for Duncan Robinson, the Heat rolled to a 121-99 win and a series lead.
Giannis remains questionable for tonight's Game 4 due to the back contusion he suffered in Game 1, but while the Bucks showed good bouncebackability in Game 2, their chances for avoiding a 3-1 hole increase significantly if Giannis is able to play tonight.
Will Milwaukee be able to even up the series, or will the East's top seed find themselves on the brink of bowing out in the first round? Read on for our Bucks vs Heat prediction, as well as our best bets for Game 4.
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Milwaukee Bucks vs Miami Heat Odds
Odds are via BetOnline as of Monday, April 24, 2023, at 6:35 am ET.
Spread
- Milwaukee Bucks -5.5 (-110)
- Miami Heat +5.5 (-110)
Over/Under
- Over 217.5 (-110)
- Under 217.5 (-110)
Moneyline
- Milwaukee Bucks -235
- Miami Heat +194
Will the Heat Seize Control of the Series?
Giannis being out for the majority of the first three games to this point certainly has affected things, but the Heat having a 2-1 lead at this point is impressive regardless of the personnel that they have had to face, or not face.
But can they seize the moment and seize control of the series tonight?
Their trends for the season do not favor a repeat performance or result.
To this point of the season, the Heat have covered in back-to-back games only seven times, and they have covered in two or more home games in a row only twice.
As for the Bucks, a lot is riding on Giannis's availability, of course. But to this point of the season, they have dropped two more games in a row only four times, and they have failed to cover as a favorite in consecutive games only three times.
Milwaukee Bucks vs Miami Heat Prediction and Best Bets
Prediction for Bucks vs Heat: Bucks to win
Best Bets for Bucks vs Heat: Bucks to cover (Best Value: -4.5 @ BetMGM)
The Heat had quite the impressive response to their Game 2 loss, and it won't be a surprise if they take a 3-1 lead.
However, I'm rolling with the back and forth to continue, even if Giannis doesn't suit up for a third straight game. The Heat haven't performed with any real consistency this season, and that will play out tonight.
Best Player Prop Bets for Bucks vs Heat
- Jrue Holiday over 18.5 points (Best Value: BetMGM)
- Holiday over 26.5 points + assists (Best Value: BetMGM)
In Game 3, Holiday had 19 points on 8 of 18 shooting (2 of 6 from three), but he was limited to just three assists.
Even if Giannis does return, I expect Holiday to continue to get his share of shots, and I also expect him to dish more dimes than he did in Game 3.
In the regular season, Holiday failed to record at least six assists only ten in 67 games. And in eight of those instances, he had six or more assists in the following game.
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