Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks (12/17) game preview: Projected starters, prediction, best odds and betting lines, injury report, how to watch, and more

The finals of the Emirates NBA Cup - Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks - will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada. Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks has been very particular on and off the court about his team's intention. They have dominated almost every matchup and it is unlikely that we will see an upset tonight.
Everything you need to know about the game, including injury reports, important players, broadcast information, and more, will be covered in this article.






(Note: Projected starters are subject to change. This is not the finalized roster and this applies to both the teams playing tonight.)


- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
- Isaiah Hartenstein

- Giannis Antetokounmpo
- Damian Lillard















- Moneyline: Thunder (-200) vs Bucks (+165)
- Spread: Thunder (-4.5) vs Bucks (+4.5)
- Total (O/U): Thunder -108 (O 110.5)
(Note: Odds are correct at the time of writing and likely to change. Keep an eye out for the recent odds)


For bettors looking to increase their excitement, a Same Game Parlay (SGP) offers an intriguing opportunity. The suggested SGP includes Bucks +5, Giannis to record 12+ rebounds, and Caruso to notch 2+ steals. This combination comes with +499 odds, making it a compelling option for those seeking a higher payout.
The Milwaukee Bucks enter the final as a +5 underdog, but many believe backing them to cover is a smart move. With a trophy on the line here, both teams will be extra motivated to get the victory and we would argue there is not a lot that separates the two squads. Milwaukee has dominated this matchup in the past, winning six of the last seven games against Oklahoma City. The Bucks' experience is also seen as a key factor, with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s championship run adding to their big-game credentials.
A major focus for Milwaukee is the rebounding battle, where Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to deliver on the court. He’s being tipped to record at least 12 rebounds, a mark he has hit in eight of his last nine games against the Thunder. Antetokounmpo has had some really big numbers in recent head-to-head games, averaging 15.6 rebounds per game in the last 9 vs OKC. This is bolstered by OKC's rebounding struggles, as they allow 57.5 boards per game this season, the most in the league alongside the Washington Wizards. Giannis recently grabbed 14 rebounds in a win over Atlanta, which shows off his current form.
On the other side of the court, the Oklahoma City Thunder’s defensive prowess has been a major storyline. They currently lead the Western Conference and are riding a five-game win streak. A key contributor to their defensive dominance is Alex Caruso, who has become a crucial part of OKC’s backcourt since returning from injury. One of the reasons why the Thunder have been so successful this year is definitely their defense, getting Caruso back from injury has elevated them even more in that department.
Caruso is tasked with guarding Damian Lillard, and his ability to rack up steals could play a pivotal role. He’s recorded at least two steals in five of his last six games and has done so three times in five career games against Lillard. OKC’s defense has been stifling this season, especially against point guards, allowing only 20.7 points per game to players at that position.


Thunder Team Total Over 110.5 (-108) available at time of publishing. Playable to 112.5
With the Bucks’ experience and OKC’s elite defense, this NBA Cup Final has all the makings of a classic. While the Thunder have been one of the best teams in the Western Conference this season, Milwaukee’s dominance in head-to-head meetings gives them a psychological edge. The close nature of this matchup has led many to predict a nail-biter of a final. If we get a close finish here, which the neutrals are rooting for, then backing Milwaukee to cover is the more reasonable choice.
With a championship on the line, every possession counts, and both teams have a lot to prove. Will OKC's oppressive defence and Caruso's disruptive presence be too much for the Bucks to handle, or will their experience and ability to rebound lead them to victory? To discover out, fans will need to tune in on Tuesday night.


The match between the Thunder and the Bucks will take place on December 17, 2024, at 8:30 pm ET. It will take place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Also read: Top 30 most valuable NBA teams of 2024


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