NBA Team Preview:  Milwaukee Bucks

The reigning NBA Champion Milwaukee Bucks will start 2021 as the number one favorite to repeat as champion. After starting playoffs last season as the three seed, the Bucks made quick work of the Miami Heat, and then the most shocking series win came in the second round when they defeated the Brooklyn Nets. The Bucks stormed through the Hawks in the semi-finals and then beat the Phoenix Suns to become NBA Champions.

There have only been 13 back-to-back champions in NBA history. The Bucks will return all five starters from their regular season. The Bucks finished 46-26 last season, just three games back from winning the Eastern Conference. The Bucks will have their eye on winning the Eastern Conference before worrying about back-to-back titles.

Big Additions

The biggest addition going into this season is Grayson Allen, whom the Bucks traded the Grizzlies for. Allen had, arguably, his best season last season, scoring over 10 points per game and shooting just shy of 40% from the three-point line. While it will be a close call as to whether or not Allen will start to begin the season, having Allen come off the bench could be a great weapon for that second squad. 

After a season away, George Hill will make his return to Milwaukee. Hill will be a solid veteran addition to the bench and could see major minutes if there was any type of injuries to their guard group. Hill averaged nine points in 2019 in his last season with the Bucks.

Impactful Subtractions

When you look at this roster, compared to the roster the team had last season in the playoffs, there are not a lot of changes. Jeff Teague, a sixth or seventh man last season, came over halfway through last season from the Celtics. Teague is still currently without a team at the time.

PJ Tucker signed a two deal with the Miami Heat. After coming over late in the season from the Houston Rockets, Tucker spent most of the regular season coming off the bench. His defense in the playoffs played a massive role in the success of the Bucks. Guarding the likes of Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, his defensive prowess will be missed.

Key Players

Giannis Antetokounmpo has become a household name for Milwaukee Bucks fans, even if they can’t all pronounce it correctly. As the reigning MVP of the NBA Championship, Antetokounmpo is one of the most feared big men in the league. He has quickly developed a mid-range game, allowing him to play off the dribble as well as in the post. He has also become the face of the franchise, working with community members all over to try to help his city.

Khris Middleton is another player for the Bucks that is finally getting the recognition he deserves. In 2020, Middleton averaged 20 points, six rebounds, and five assists. Middleton is a great compliment to Giannis, with his innate ability to find open spots for kick-outs.

Milwaukee Bucks Gambling Odds

The Milwaukee Bucks are currently +750 to win the championship this year. While those odds are not great, there is money to be made if you think the Bucks are going to repeat as champions.

The Bucks are +425 to win the Eastern Conference this season. Currently, the Nets are the only team with higher odds than the Bucks.

The total win mark for the Bucks is currently at 54.5. If you are going to make a wager on total wins, the odds for both the over and the under are at -115.

* All odds provided by Action247 Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.
**All views expressed are my own. My picks are my own and are not a guarantee, bet at your own risk.