Milwaukee Bucks vs Washington-wizards Picks and Predictions October 22nd 2025

Washington Wizards vs Milwaukee Bucks Betting Preview

The Washington Wizards visit the Milwaukee Bucks to tip off the 2025-26 NBA season on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at Fiserv Forum. Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET, with coverage available on FDSW and full odds at ScoresAndStats.com.

This opener carries extra emotion as longtime Buck Khris Middleton returns to Milwaukee for the first time since his trade to Washington. The veteran forward, who ranks third on Milwaukee’s all-time scoring list, will now oppose former teammate Giannis Antetokounmpo in a new uniform.

Washington Wizards Outlook

The Wizards enter the new season looking to take the next step in their rebuild, now blending young talent with proven veterans. Middleton joins CJ McCollum as key additions to a team hoping to improve after finishing near the bottom of the standings last season.

McCollum’s leadership and consistent scoring (21.1 points per game last year) should give Washington stability, while Middleton brings championship experience from Milwaukee’s 2021 title run. Rookie Tre Johnson, the No. 6 overall pick, and first-rounder Will Riley add excitement to the young rotation.

Washington’s preseason showed flashes of promise despite a 1-2 record. Marvin Bagley III’s double-double ability and AJ Johnson’s perimeter speed stand out as early positives. The team will miss Bilal Coulibaly (thumb), but the Wizards’ added depth in the frontcourt could keep them competitive in the NBA Eastern Conference Odds & Predictions.

Milwaukee Bucks Outlook

Milwaukee begins the season under coach Doc Rivers, looking to reassert itself as an Eastern Conference powerhouse. The Bucks finished last year at 54-28 but failed to reach their playoff goals. The offseason brought changes — Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton departed, while Myles Turner and Kyle Kuzma arrived to reshape the lineup.

Giannis Antetokounmpo remains the centerpiece, coming off another MVP-caliber campaign with 30.4 points and 11.9 rebounds per game. Turner’s floor spacing and rim protection make him an ideal complement, while Kevin Porter Jr. takes over primary playmaking duties after Damian Lillard’s contract was stretched.

Milwaukee went 3-1 in preseason action, showing balanced scoring and solid defense. New additions like Cole Anthony and Jericho Sims add energy off the bench. The Bucks rank among the early favorites in the NBA Championship Odds & Predictions, with their veteran core intact and renewed motivation.

Line Movement and Odds

Current odds from ScoresAndStats NBA Picks:

• Bucks -9.5
• Wizards +9.5
• Moneyline: Bucks -450 / Wizards +340
• Total: 228.0 (Over/Under)

Milwaukee’s large spread reflects both its home-court dominance and Washington’s uncertainty integrating new pieces.

Matchup Breakdown

Middleton’s return creates a compelling storyline, but the on-court battle hinges on pace and execution. Milwaukee’s frontcourt pairing of Antetokounmpo and Turner should overwhelm Washington’s defense in the paint. Expect Giannis to attack early, while Porter Jr. and Kuzma look to exploit mismatches against a smaller Wizards lineup.

Washington’s hopes rest on McCollum and Middleton’s shooting efficiency. If the Wizards can keep turnovers low and get transition buckets through Marvin Bagley III, they can stay within striking distance. However, Milwaukee’s interior defense and rebounding advantage are likely to dictate the flow.

Key Edge

The Bucks’ continuity and home-court strength give them the clear advantage. While the Wizards’ revamped roster should compete, Milwaukee’s top-end talent and spacing make them difficult to contain in half-court sets. Expect the Bucks’ bench to extend the lead late.

Betting Trends

• Milwaukee is 8-2 straight-up in its last 10 home games.
• The Bucks are 6-1 ATS in their last seven season openers.
• Washington is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games against Eastern Conference opponents.
• The total has gone under in six of Milwaukee’s last nine home games.

Check updated lines and expert previews across the NBA Expert Betting Guide for more early-season insights.

Prediction and Best Bets

Milwaukee’s chemistry, depth, and star power should overpower Washington’s retooled lineup. Middleton’s return adds emotion, but Antetokounmpo and Turner will set the tone on both ends. Expect the Bucks to pull away in the second half behind their inside-out attack.

Projected Score: Bucks 117, Wizards 104
Best Bet: Bucks -9.5
Secondary Lean: Under 228.0

Get more NBA coverage, team breakdowns, and betting previews for the Milwaukee Bucks and Washington Wizards at ScoresAndStats.com.