The Bucks took the first game of a back-to-back with the Bulls Thursday night, 108-97. With the win, they snapped a three-game skid and are back within the .500 mark, improving to 12-12.
Jabari Parker (19.4 PPG) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (22.3 PPG, 8.9 RPG, 5.9 APG), as expected, led the scoring. Parker had 28 points, while “The Greek Freak” recorded another fantasy-friendly stat line – 30 points (game-high), 14 rebounds, three assists, three steals, and one block.
For the Bucks to make the season series 2-0, they will need those two to do the same, although the defense of John Henson, Tony Snell, Greg Monroe, and the entire roster will be a big help. Monroe has been big off the bench, as he is averaging 9.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game in just 19 minutes of play.
Putting up points is not the Bucks’ main strength (104 PPG, 17th in the league), but they have exceeded that average in six of their last eight games.
Defense is what they thrive on, thanks to having plenty of players with great wingspans. Their intimidation game is probably strong, as they allow the fourth lowest field goal percentage in the league (43.4).
The Bucks are 3-6 SU and ATS in their nine road games this season.
That 108-97 loss to the Bucks was much worse than what the score suggests. The Bulls were playing behind right from the opening frame and were down by 27 at one point. The defeat was already their fifth in seven games (13-12 overall).
They had no answer inside and out, allowing the Bucks to score 58 points in the paint and shoot 11-for-20 from downtown, while also committing 17 turnovers.
In trying to get back a W, the Bulls will simply have to better on scoring and shooting the ball. They are one of the worst in the NBA on both areas. Currently, the team is 22nd in points (102.3) and field goal percentage (44.0 percent), and dead-last in three point shooting (30.7 percent).
Nevertheless, expect Jimmy Butler to still be the number one guy in the scoring duties. He’s leading the team with 25.7 PPG (ninth in the league), and has 79 points in his last three outings (20-plus points in 18 of his last 19).
The Bulls are 7-4 on the home this season (6-5 ATS).
Writer’s Prediction
The Bulls win a close one and even the season series, 104-101.
