Each team in this game is scuffling a bit, but still eyeing a deep playoff run this summer. Saturday at 8:40 p.m. EDT, the Milwaukee Bucks (32-16; 18-29-1 ATS) and Dallas Mavericks (26-22; 24-24-0 ATS) will collide for the second time this season. The first meeting came in Milwaukee, with the Bucks winning 132-125. This time, Dallas' American Airlines Center gets to play host. Will the outcome change with the venue, or are the Bucks going to sweep the season series?
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Coming into this game, the front half of a back-to-back, the Bucks have dropped three of four. The slump coincides with Joe Prunty taking over as interim coach and Glenn “Doc” Rivers becoming the head coach in place of Adrian Griffin. This team came into the season with championship aspirations, but a defensive rating that's ranked 19th in the league has raised some red flags. The Bucks are strong on the perimeter, allowing the 10th-fewest three-point attempts per game and the fifth-lowest three-point percentage. Yet, they're 28th in midrange defense, 16th at defending the rim, and force the fewest turnovers per game. They haven't benefitted from foes hitting 81.5% (30th) of their free throws. A top-10 defensive rebounding percentage rounds out Milwaukee's defense. They've been better lately, b een still subpar.
Dame floated. pic.twitter.com/6nj3JXPeWa
— Milwaukee Bucks (@Bucks) February 1, 2024
The Bucks have been successful this season thanks to an elite offense. Milwaukee is third in offensive rating and points per game. They're first in true shooting percentage thanks to top-10 efficiency from all three scoring levels. The Bucks attempt the second-most free throws per game and have the fourth-best turnover percentage. This team is 27th in offensive rebounding percentage, but otherwise, Milwaukee's scoring attack is incredible.