:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69547511/1233823501.0.jpg)
The Phoenix Suns meet the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1 of the 2021 NBA Finals with the home team favored to win the series. Giannis Antetokounmpo is questionable to play in the opener, but there’s reason for optimism for Milwaukee as the Bucks have won two games in a row without him.
Below is a look at a number of predictions ahead of Tuesday’s Game 1 for the Free $5K DraftKings Pools - Playoff Edition (MIL-PHO).
BOOST THE FINALS OR THE FIGHT!
NEW USERS: Get 150/1 odds on your team to win their Finals game or 264/1 odds on your fighter to get a 1st-round KO! Choose your boost at DraftKings Sportsbook!
Suns vs. Bucks Game 1 pool picks
Which team will cover the spread? Bucks +5.5 or Suns -5.5
Both regular season meetings were decided by one point, but this hinges almost exclusively on Antetokounmpo’s status. If he suits up, the Bucks are the pick. Otherwise, the home team is a good bet.
Total points scored? Over/Under 217.5
Both regular season matchups were high-scoring contests and there’s little reason to think this one won’t be. The Suns have struggled defensively at times and the Bucks might be without their best defensive player. This line is a little low for these two teams.
Who will score 15 points first? Suns, Bucks or Neither
The Suns are the home team and will be expected to come out strong. The Bucks have been playing well of late even without the Greek Freak, but Phoenix is the pick here.
Which team will make more 3-pointers?
The Suns are an efficient shooting team, but players like Mikal Bridges and Jae Crowder have uncharacteristically struggled in the playoffs. The Bucks have volume in their favor and should be the pick here.
Will Khris Middleton and Devin Booker both score 25 or more points?
If Antetokounmpo doesn’t play, Middleton is a good bet to score 25 or more points. Booker is the rising star of the playoffs, averaging 27.0 points per game. He’ll want to come out strong to open the Finals. I think both guys will show out tonight and hit this milestone.
Which player will have more points and rebounds? Brook Lopez or Mikal Bridges
Bridges has really struggled to put up a big game in the playoffs, mainly contributing with his defense and some timely shooting. Lopez is breaking out at the right time for the Bucks with Antetokounmpo hurt and will put up more points and rebounds than Bridges in this contest.
Devin Booker points, rebounds and assists? Over/under 38.5
Although the Bucks will key in on Booker, expect the Phoenix star to get a lot of decent looks and take advantage. For a guy who is averaging 27.0 points per game, this line is low. Take the over.
Which team will win the 4th Quarter?
The Suns are the superior team closing out games. The Bucks still have Middleton to take big shots for them down the stretch, but can occasionally fall apart late in games. Phoenix is the home team and has the better point guard for big moments. Take the Suns to win the final frame.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ NH). CO/IL/IN/IA/NH/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/MI only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.