Picks of the Week: Bucks-Thunder
A collaboration between ALL-STAR Magazine and SportsPlus PH
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to be consumed as financial advice but rather as a way to provide context on sports betting.
When it comes to making sharp NBA betting decisions, few are as consistent and insightful as Denzeal Chung and Sanjay Belani. Both seasoned gamblers, Denzeal and Sanjay, have built reputations in their field for reading the game beyond the box score, blending deep basketball knowledge with an uncanny ability to analyze the ever-changing odds. This week, they’re back with their top picks, breaking down matchups, player trends, and betting lines.
Running Record:
Denzeal: 2-4-0
Sanjay: 3-3-0
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The Milwaukee Bucks, one of the powerhouses in the Eastern Conference, face off against the youthful and dynamic Oklahoma City Thunder at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas for the NBA Cup.
The Bucks have been playing well despite some noticeable lapses in body language. Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo have shouldered the offensive load, with Bobby Portis providing consistent firepower off the bench. However, the Thunder appear determined to show the league they can achieve anything. They’ve been formidable with Chet Holmgren in the lineup and now look equally dangerous with the recent addition of Isaiah Hartenstein.
OKC plays a gritty, unique style of basketball reminiscent of the “grit and grind” era. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has firmly established himself as the alpha of this young squad, and they’re poised to prove their mettle once again. I believe the Thunder’s perimeter defense can contain Lillard and force Giannis into tough situations, resulting in contested shots and inefficiency.
This matchup promises to be a tightly contested affair, with the NBA Cup championship on the line. It’s a treat for NBA fans and a game where both teams have plenty to prove.
Trends
Both semifinal finishes (Bucks vs. Rockets and Thunder vs. Hawks) would have hit an UNDER on 216.5 total points.
Oklahoma City maintains the No. 1-ranked defense, allowing just 103.1 points per 100 possessions.
Denzeal’s Pick: Oklahoma/Milwaukee UNDER 215.5
The undefeated Milwaukee Bucks meet the red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Emirates Cup Final at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
The Bucks have been solid lately, with Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge and Bobby Portis providing consistent energy off the bench. On the other hand, the Oklahoma City Thunder have looked like the NBA’s best team. With Chet Holmgren sidelined, the addition of Isaiah Hartenstein has kept them just as dominant. OKC plays hard on both ends of the floor and operates with impressive chemistry and trust.
Led by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder are shaping up to be legitimate championship contenders. I believe OKC’s perimeter defenders can contain Lillard and force Giannis to carry the offense solo. In a scenario where one superstar goes up against a cohesive unit featuring its own dominant player, I favor the Thunder. Their teamwork and chemistry could be the key to victory, and I expect them to celebrate their cash prize at the end of the night.
Trends
The Thunder have been dominant, going 17-7-1 against the spread in their first 25 games.
Oklahoma City is an impressive 39-8 in their last 47 games.
Sanjay’s Pick: Oklahoma City -4.0 (buying half a point)