Milwaukee Bucks vs Charlotte Hornets Picks and Predictions January 2nd 2026

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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.

Track updates on the NBA odds board.

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.

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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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