The Milwaukee Bucks and the Phoenix Suns will meet in the NBA Finals. The Bucks are +175 to win the series while the Suns are -200.
Players to watch: Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday for the Bucks. Middleton and Holiday are playing exceptional in the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo. They have increased their scoring averages in the last three games the Bucks played.
Chris Paul and Devin Booker for the Suns. Paul is playing some of his best basketball right now. He does not turn the ball over and scores when the Suns need a basket. Booker is playing well despite a broken nose suffered against the Clippers. He is threat from anywhere because of his 3-point range.
X factor is Giannis. If he plays and is at 75%, the Bucks would be a favorite to take this series. I have a feeling that he will not play until Game 3 at the earliest.
Coach Edge: Mike Budenholzer and Monty Williams. Williams has pushed all the right buttons and was runner up for Coach of the Year. Budenholzer showed he can adjust without Giannis. Slight edge to Williams.
The Suns and Bucks road to the Finals were benefited by injuries to players on the opposing teams. In this series, the uncertainty of Giannis gives the Suns the edge.
Prop Bets: Look for prop bets involving Jrue Holiday and Chris Paul to go over their scoring projections in the first two games of the series. I also like the assists totals for both of these players to exceeds their projections.
The Pick: Suns stop Bucks in 6. Chris Paul will find a way to win and get his first NBA Championship.
Game One: Take the game over 218. Suns money line of -250 is more appealing than laying the 6.
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