The Toronto Raptors won Game 3 of their playoff series against the Milwaukee Bucks in a double-overtime thriller on Sunday night. Toronto hopes to even up the series at 2-2 with a win today as 3-point underdogs at home. **video
We break down the odds and give our predictions and best bets for this pivotal Game 4 in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals.
MILWAUKEE BUCKS AT TORONTO RAPTORS (Milwaukee -3, 217.5)
QUICK HITTER
Toronto got out to a quick start at home last game scoring 30 first quarter points, while holding the Bucks to only 21. All season long, these have been two of the better teams defensively in the first quarter with Toronto holding opponents to only 25.6 points at home, and Milwaukee limiting foes to 26.6 ppg on the road. Look for an emphasis on defense early.
PREDICTION: First quarter total - Under 53.5
FIRST HALF BET
In the most recent three games in the head-to-head the average score at halftime has been very low, 55-52 in favor of the Bucks. The Raptors surrender the sixth-fewest first half points per game at 52.7 at home, and Milwaukee ranks third away from home at 53.3.
PREDICTION: First half game total - Under 106.5
TEAM/PLAYER PROP
Milwaukee’s Eric Bledsoe has struggled throughout this series, being held to three made field goals in each game. His shooting has been very poor compared to the 48.4 field goal percentage he put up in the regular season. He has still been active on both sides of the floor averaging 4.5 rebounds throughout the most recent three games and logging two games with five or more assists. Look for him to finally record another game with double digit scoring.
PREDICTION: Eric Bledsoe Over 20.5 points, rebounds, assists
FULL GAME TOTAL
The Raptors have been held to 37, 42, and 39 percent shooting from the floor in each game versus Milwaukee in the postseason and have really struggled putting up points. The Bucks have also seen their scoring decline this series as they average 117.9 points per game, but have only eclipsed that number once, in the second game. Look for defense to be a focal point for both sides, as the Bucks continue their defensive dominance by forcing the Raptors into tough shots.
PREDICTION: Under 217.5
FULL GAME SIDE
The Raptors have played their best at home winning 38 of 49 games at Scotiabank Arena. They've gone 6-1 in their most recent seven games in Toronto. However, Milwaukee has been the best team in the NBA away from home with a 31-15 record and have won six of the most recent eight versus the Raptors. Look for Milwaukee to be too much to handle and take a commanding 3-1 lead before they return home for Game 5.
PREDICTION: Milwaukee Bucks -3
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+. NJ only. Odds may vary. Eligibility restrictions apply. See website for details.
