Two of the worst teams in the Association play today, the 1-6 Milwaukee Bucks host the 1-6 Utah Jazz. 

Two franchises that could be in for major roster reconstruction before the end of the season, but two teams with great players. Both teams are also dealing with injuries and rebuilds too.

 

 

 

Utah Jazz: Let Me In

The Utah Jazz have played a couple close games but have also been blown out. They have yet to win their first home game, but did win their first game of the season on November 4th. They could also have back-to-back wins tonight.

It starts with Lauri Markkanen who is scheduled to return to action today. His presence on the court will impact not only the other team, but also his teammates. The Jazz have a great opportunity to gain momentum and could steal this game, behind their best player returning.

 

 

 

Milwaukee Bucks: Take The Money & Run

Giannis Antetokounmpo has done everything he can do to help deliver a win for the Bucks, but it hasn’t been enough. The Bucks have the longest losing streak in the NBA, as they only won the opening game against an injured 76ers team. Both teams are at the bottom of the East. 

There are whispers that Antetokounmpo wants out, Damian Lillard has expressed his depression while in Milwaukee, and Bobby Portis’ house was broken into and burglarized last week. There are major issues with just the lineups, plus whatever else is taking place in team practices/meetings.

The Bucks have an opportunity to win their first game at home this season, but Milwaukee looks like a busted team. There could be a major shift to what was a championship roster not that long ago. Sometimes championship windows close fast.

 

 

 

Utah Jazz Starting Lineup

Milwaukee Bucks Starting Lineup

 

 

 

Jazz vs. Bucks Predictions & Picks Today: Thursday, 11/7

Lauri Markkanen Over 6.5 Rebounds (-130 on BetMGM)

Lauri Markkanen has eight or more rebounds in every game he has played 27 or more minutes. He was injured October 28th and missed the next three games due to back spasms. He is expected to play today, and our prediction is for him to have over 6.5 rebounds.

The odds are slightly juiced and that is okay, because the data indicates this should be an easy proposition for Markkanen to cover. G. Antetokounmpo should play, because he usually does play through smaller injuries, but if he is out then this line likely moves. Take advantage of it now with a unit wager.

 

 

 

Utah Jazz +8.5 (-112 on DraftKings)

This spread has recently moved down from 9.5 to 8.5 and for good reason, the Bucks are not a good team. They have not won at home, are 2-5 against the spread this year, and have not covered a nine point spread this season. 

Both teams are well rested and should be playing with maximum effort, but that does not mean that the Bucks have the advantage. The Jazz’s only win came in their most recent game, and the Bucks only win came on the opening night. Two different momentums.

Good teams win, great teams cover, and the Bucks are neither great nor good. They may be good enough to get their first win at the Fiserv Forum, but they likely will not cover the spread. Put a unit on the Jazz to cover the +8.5-spread tonight.

 

 

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky -Iggy-