Bet On It: Bucks Will At Least Cover In Game 1 Of Finals Vs. Suns

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Giannis Antetokounmpo is doubtful for Game 1 of the NBA Finals, and that could mean bad news for the Milwaukee Bucks. Then again, they’re 2-0 without him in these playoffs.

The Bucks visit the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday to tip off a whole new world in pro basketball, with no LeBron James, no Golden State Warriors and no traditional power of any sort. The Bucks haven’t been to the Finals since 1974, the Suns since 1993, and they have one title between them (Bucks, 1971).

But without Antetokounmpo … well, for today’s Bucks, that tends to change a lot. They will now have to go through the likes of Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday and Brook Lopez. All nice players for sure, but not exactly superstars.

Meanwhile, the Suns are relying on the veteran leadership of Chris Paul, with shooting guard Devin Booker and even center Deandre Ayton continuing their rise. And as mentioned, the Suns have homecourt for Game 1 (and Game 2, for that matter).

So you would think you would take the Suns and the -6.5 here. Don’t do it. Don’t be fooled by Antetokounmpo’s status. The Bucks’ supporting cast has proven to be determined and capable. Milwaukee will keep this one close. So go with the Bucks.

The over-under of 219.5 is a gimme. The Suns generally score lots of points anywhere, and the Bucks generally give up plenty on the road. Take the over.

Follow Sam Amico on Twitter @AmicoHoops.