Memphis Grizzlies vs Milwaukee Bucks Picks and Predictions December 26th 2025

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Milwaukee finally broke through on the road Tuesday, snapping an eight-game road losing streak with a 111-94 win in Indiana. The Bucks did it without Giannis Antetokounmpo, leaning instead on balance, effort, and improved defensive execution. Kevin Porter Jr. led the way with 24 points, while Milwaukee looked more connected on both ends.

Now the challenge is consistency. Milwaukee has struggled away from home all season, and stacking road wins remains a major hurdle. Giannis remains sidelined, but his recent on-court work suggests a return is approaching. Until then, Milwaukee must continue to defend, rebound, and limit mistakes to stay competitive.

Memphis returns home after a shorthanded but impressive win in Utah. Despite missing multiple starters, the Grizzlies found offense from unexpected places and showed resilience. Santi Aldama erupted for a career-high 37 points, while GG Jackson II provided energy and rebounding in his first start of the season.

For full slate context, visit the NBA previews hub.

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Line Movement and Odds

Memphis opened -6.5 and the line has held firm, reflecting uncertainty around Milwaukee’s injury situation and skepticism about back-to-back road success. The Bucks sit at +6.5, drawing light interest after their Indiana win.

The total opened at 227.5 and has ticked up to 229, driven by Memphis’ recent scoring output and Milwaukee’s improved pace. Moneyline pricing favors the Grizzlies, with Milwaukee returning plus money as a road underdog.

Check live updates on the NBA odds board.

Matchup Breakdown

Milwaukee’s path is defense and shot selection. Without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks must win the rebounding battle by committee and avoid extended scoring droughts. Porter’s penetration and Bobby Portis’ interior scoring give them structure, but efficiency is critical.

Memphis thrives on pace and pressure. Even short-handed, the Grizzlies push tempo and attack early in the clock. Aldama’s shooting stretches defenses, and Jackson’s activity on the glass adds second-chance opportunities. Memphis’ ability to force turnovers could decide this matchup.

For additional market perspectives, review the latest NBA picks.

Injuries and Conditions

Milwaukee Bucks

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo, calf, out
  • Khris Middleton, knee management, active

See full Milwaukee Bucks injury report.

Memphis Grizzlies

  • Ja Morant, shoulder, out
  • Zach Edey, ankle, out
  • Brandon Clarke, knee, out

See full Memphis Grizzlies injury report.

This game is indoors. No weather impact.

Best Bets and Prediction

Milwaukee’s road win was encouraging, but Memphis remains the more consistent team at home, even with injuries. The Grizzlies’ pace and depth give them an edge against a Bucks team still finding its identity without Giannis.

Projected Score: Grizzlies 118, Bucks 111
Best Bet: Grizzlies -6.5
Secondary Lean: Over 229

ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks

Milwaukee finally broke through on the road Tuesday, snapping an eight-game road losing streak with a 111-94 win in Indiana. The Bucks did it without Giannis Antetokounmpo, leaning instead on balance, effort, and improved defensive execution. Kevin Porter Jr. led the way with 24 points, while Milwaukee looked more connected on both ends.

Now the challenge is consistency. Milwaukee has struggled away from home all season, and stacking road wins remains a major hurdle. Giannis remains sidelined, but his recent on-court work suggests a return is approaching. Until then, Milwaukee must continue to defend, rebound, and limit mistakes to stay competitive.

Memphis returns home after a shorthanded but impressive win in Utah. Despite missing multiple starters, the Grizzlies found offense from unexpected places and showed resilience. Santi Aldama erupted for a career-high 37 points, while GG Jackson II provided energy and rebounding in his first start of the season.

For full slate context, visit the NBA previews hub.

Line Movement and Odds

Memphis opened -6.5 and the line has held firm, reflecting uncertainty around Milwaukee’s injury situation and skepticism about back-to-back road success. The Bucks sit at +6.5, drawing light interest after their Indiana win.

The total opened at 227.5 and has ticked up to 229, driven by Memphis’ recent scoring output and Milwaukee’s improved pace. Moneyline pricing favors the Grizzlies, with Milwaukee returning plus money as a road underdog.

Check live updates on the NBA odds board.

Matchup Breakdown

Milwaukee’s path is defense and shot selection. Without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks must win the rebounding battle by committee and avoid extended scoring droughts. Porter’s penetration and Bobby Portis’ interior scoring give them structure, but efficiency is critical.

Memphis thrives on pace and pressure. Even short-handed, the Grizzlies push tempo and attack early in the clock. Aldama’s shooting stretches defenses, and Jackson’s activity on the glass adds second-chance opportunities. Memphis’ ability to force turnovers could decide this matchup.

For additional market perspectives, review the latest NBA picks.

Injuries and Conditions

Milwaukee Bucks

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo, calf, out
  • Khris Middleton, knee management, active

See full Milwaukee Bucks injury report.

Memphis Grizzlies

  • Ja Morant, shoulder, out
  • Zach Edey, ankle, out
  • Brandon Clarke, knee, out

See full Memphis Grizzlies injury report.

This game is indoors. No weather impact.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Milwaukee’s road win was encouraging, but Memphis remains the more consistent team at home, even with injuries. The Grizzlies’ pace and depth give them an edge against a Bucks team still finding its identity without Giannis.

Projected Score: Grizzlies 118, Bucks 111
Best Bet: Grizzlies -6.5
Secondary Lean: Over 229

ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks