Charlotte Hornets vs Milwaukee Bucks Betting Preview
Charlotte heads to Milwaukee with Kon Knueppel back in the lineup and trending up. The rookie shined earlier this season in his hometown, and his return adds another scoring creator alongside LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller. Knueppel followed his ankle return with 20 points and eight assists against Golden State, showing no hesitation attacking off the catch or creating late.
Milwaukee looks to rebound after a frustrating one-point loss on New Year’s Eve. The Bucks let Washington hang around and paid for it late, an outcome Doc Rivers called unacceptable. Giannis Antetokounmpo is no longer restricted, and Milwaukee’s rotation is otherwise stable. The Bucks have dominated this matchup recently and can clinch the season series with a win.
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Line Movement and Odds
Milwaukee opened -9.5 and has held steady around -10 with consistent favorite support. Charlotte sits at +10, with some buyback tied to Knueppel’s return and improved offensive spacing.
The total opened at 238.5 and nudged to 240. Bettors expect pace, perimeter shooting, and transition chances on both sides. Moneyline pricing reflects Milwaukee control at home.
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Matchup Breakdown
Charlotte’s path is perimeter efficiency and ball movement. Ball drives tempo and creates looks, while Knueppel’s off-ball IQ punishes rotations. If Miles Bridges plays, Charlotte gains another downhill threat. Defensive rebounding remains a concern against Milwaukee’s size.
Milwaukee’s edge is physicality and rim pressure. Antetokounmpo forces help and opens threes for Bobby Portis and the supporting cast. When the Bucks defend without fouling, they control runs and limit second chances. Their recent slip came from focus, not personnel.
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Injuries and Conditions
Charlotte Hornets
- Miles Bridges, ankle, probable
- Ryan Kalkbrenner, elbow, out
- Mason Plumlee, groin, out
See full Charlotte Hornets injury report.
Milwaukee Bucks
- Taurean Prince, DPE, out
See full Milwaukee Bucks injury report.
This game is indoors. No weather impact.
Best Bets and Prediction
Charlotte’s offense can score, but Milwaukee’s size and matchup history matter. The Bucks respond well after poor defensive efforts and should control the paint over 48 minutes.
Projected Score: Bucks 124, Hornets 114
Best Bet: Bucks -10
Secondary Lean: Over 240
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