Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics Predictions, Odds, Picks

• The Bucks took Game 1 with force, despite not having home court advantage
• The Celtics need to improve on what was a dreadful performance at the rim in Game 1
• The Bucks lead the series 1-0

Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics Odds

Head-to-Head: Milwaukee Bucks vs Boston Celtics

Injury Report

How Can the Bucks Beat the Celtics?

The Milwaukee Bucks laid the groundwork for how they intend on beating the Celtics through their Game 1 performance. If they can maintain their defensive standards, they’ll find an easy route to the Conference Finals.

In Game 1, Milwaukee’s interior defence was incredible. Not only did they hold the Celtics to 33.3% shooting from the field, but Milwaukee won the rebounding battled 54 to 48, while forcing 18 turnovers out of the usually responsible Celtics.

The presence of Brook Lopez has been impactful for the Bucks’ defence, allowing them to pressure the Celtics from the perimeter. Should Milwaukee hold the Celtics to under 40% shooting again, it’ll likely be another in the win column.

Bucks Key Player: (F) Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis dropped a triple-double to lead the @Bucks to the Game 1 victory on the road! #FearTheDeer #TripleDoubleAlert #WithAmex@Giannis_An34: 24 PTS, 13 REB, 12 AST, 2 BLK pic.twitter.com/YZaIr2m5tZ

— NBA (@NBA) May 2, 2022

Giannis Antetokounmpo faced a very tough defence in Game 1 of Milwaukee’s second round series against the Boston Celtics. He may not have been efficient shooting the ball, but he was able to contribute in many facets of the game.

The Bucks likely would have dropped the game had they not had Antetokounmpo’s production. The reigning NBA Finals MVP posted 24 points, 13 rebounds, 12 assists, and 2 blocks in 37 minutes of play. He shot just 9 of 25 from the field and committed 5 turnovers on the night.

Antetokounmpo will continue to face great opposition at the rim, especially if his jumper remains inconsistent. If the Greek Freak can continue to be productive, regardless of shooting efficiency, the Bucks will be in a good position to take Game 2.

How Can the Celtics Beat the Bucks?

The Boston Celtics were surprised by the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1. They struggled with the Bucks’ physicality, resulting a poor shooting night. If they hope to level the series, Boston must match Milwaukee’s intensity at the rim.

In Game 1 against the Bucks, the Celtics were forced to play from the outside. Of their just 28 field goals on the night, only 10 of them were made from two-point range. Boston shot 33.3% from the field and 36% from three.

The Celtics are fortunate to have talented shooters, converting on 18 three-point field goals in Game 1. However if Boston can’t challenge Milwaukee in the paint, Milwaukee will run rampant on both ends.

Celtics Key Player: (G) Jaylen Brown

The block or the bucket?

Jaylen Brown getting it done on BOTH ends of the floor ?#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google Pixel on ABC pic.twitter.com/Vtf4MBLh9Z

— NBA (@NBA) April 17, 2022

After the Boston Celtics dropped Game 1, all eyes shifted to All-Star Jaylen Brown for his performance against the Bucks. In order for the Celtics to win, Brown needs to be efficient and productive, in support of Tatum.

In 38 minutes of play, Brown posted 12 points 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals in 38 minutes of play. He shot just 4 of 13 from the field and 3 of 9 from three-point range on the night, while committing a shocking 7 turnovers.

Brown needs to improve greatly in Game 2 if the Celtics hope to defeat the Milwaukee Bucks. If he can’t be an efficient factor on offence, while also cutting down on turnovers, the Celtics will struggle to win Game 2.

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