The Chicago Bulls welcome their division rival Milwaukee Bucks to the United Center for game 3 of this best-of-seven series. The series is split at one game a piece so far, as Chicago is looking to build upon their momentum from their Game 2 win.
Game 3 tips off tonight at The United Center in Chicago at 8:30 p.m. ET on TNT.
The Bucks swept the regular season series against the Bulls 4-0, but this playoff series is showing some promise for Chicago as they return home knotted at a game a piece.
The Betting Angles
Tonight’s line sits at Bucks -2.5 and they are -140 moneyline. The Bulls are +2.5 and are +120 to win outright.
Injury Update
The Bucks have been dealt a devastating blow with Khris Middleton suffering a knee injury which will force him to miss the rest of this first round series. Middleton is an all star talent who will be deeply missed for the Bucks who face off against a Bulls team with plenty of offensive firepower on their side.
Why the Bucks can win and cover -2.5
The Bucks are a miserable 16-27 against the spread this season at home, but luckily they’re on the road for this one where their record fares better at 23-18. While losing Middleton is a big blow for the Bucks, they’re still the reigning champs. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jrue Holiday provide plenty of scoring on the offensive end, and lead a powerful defensive effort all over the floor. In fact, the Bucks defense has held the Bulls to just 40.5 percent shooting this series; which is the worst of any playoff team. Milwaukee should be playing with a chip on their shoulder without their number 2 guy in Middleton, which could lead to a big time game three win.
Why the Bulls can win and cover +2.5
The Bulls are 25-16 at home against the spread this season, which shows they not only have a good chance to cover in this one, but maybe even steal the win as well. Chicago is riding momentum tonight as they’ll lay their first home playoff game since 2017. Demar Derozan has played MVP caliber basketball all season, and is coming off of a 41 point outing in the Game 2 victory. Nikola Vucevic has been great so far, and if Zach LaVine can step up tonight and score like he has shown in the past, the Bulls should be set up to take a 2-1 series lead at home.
The Pick: Take Milwaukee -2.5
While the Bucks could struggle early without Middleton, Giannis and Holiday should be able to pick up the slack after a quick adjustment. The Bucks have been phenomenal on the road this season, and have had the Bulls number all year as well. Expect Milwaukee to bounce back after a disappointing Game two loss to take back control 2-1 in the series.
