Milwaukee Bucks Preview and Betting Odds for 2023-2024 Season

The Milwaukee Bucks’ NBA 2022 season ended abruptly with a very shocking first-round loss to the 8th-seeded Miami Heat, marking the first time in 11 years that a 1st seed was defeated by an 8th seed in the playoffs. Despite an impressive regular season record of 58-24 and high expectations, the Bucks couldn’t move forward in the playoffs.

The team struggled with injuries early in the season, particularly with Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo sitting out games. Jrue Holiday emerged as a crucial offensive contributor, while Antetokounmpo continued to shine with impressive stats. However, their playoff series against the Heat revealed quite a few weaknesses in the Bucks’ defense, particularly in holding leads. Despite their regular-season success, the Bucks fell short of their ultimate goal and need to work a lot harder for a comeback this year.

For now, the Bucks find themselves in a relatively comfortable position, but their financial limitations make it challenging to make further improvements to their roster for the upcoming season. Committing to Lopez and securing Khris Middleton on a three-year, $102 million deal pushed them over the second tax apron, limiting their ability to sign talent beyond minimum contracts and draft picks. The Milwaukee Bucks are known to have relied on seasoned veterans in the offseason, but the arrival of new head coach Adrian Griffin may change this.

The team has many players over 30; bringing the attention towards the need to balance present success with future development. To achieve this, they must give younger players opportunities to prove themselves. MarJon Beauchamp, a rookie, has shown potential and improved his strength during the Summer League. His ability to attack the rim, play defense, and make three-pointers could maybe secure him a spot in the rotation. AJ Green’s three-point shooting also earned him a roster spot, as well as Andre Jackson Jr., who brings a unique skill set, excelling in off-ball movement. Jackson may need to add strength but is quite the competition for opponents.

As the Bucks look to strengthen their bench, they have several areas to address. They need to find a reliable backup point guard to fill the gap left by Jevon Carter. Skilled wings who can contribute on both ends of the floor would do great things for their depth, and securing a third big man to support Bobby Portis is the need of the hour. 

Outside of their core trio, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, and Brook Lopez, the Bucks have players like Bobby Portis, Pat Connaughton, and Grayson Allen on their payroll. Depending on their ability to secure talent in free agency, some of these players may become expendable. Jevon Carter’s deal with the Bulls, covering three seasons, opens the possibility of an extended sign-and-trade scenario, although it’s important to note that such transactions will face restrictions due to the league’s salary cap regulations beyond the second tax apron. The Bucks find themselves in a challenging position, and their decisions in the coming months will significantly impact what the team looks like for the upcoming season.

2023–24 Milwaukee Bucks Odds

from BetOnline.ag

Championship +400

Conference +170

Division -350