Bucks at Rockets 10/24/19 - NBA Picks & Predictions

In the first game of a Thursday night NBA on TNT doubleheader, the Milwaukee Bucks will travel to the Toyota Center to take on the Houston Rockets. The Bucks won an NBA best 60 games last season, but were eliminated by Toronto in their first Conference Finals appearance since 2001. Reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo averaged 27.7 points to go along with 12.5 rebounds and 5.9 assists.

All-Star G Khris Middleton is the top running mate for Giannis and C Brook Lopez has developed into a three-point shooting weapon. Kyle Korver and Wesley Matthews were brought in to replace G Malcolm Brogdon, who signed with Indiana.

The Houston Rockets have been to the playoffs in eight straight seasons, but have been eliminated by Golden State in four of the last five years. After last year’s exit, the Rockets decided to send G Chris Paul to Oklahoma City in exchange for G Russell Westbrook. James Harden and Westbrook started their careers together in Oklahoma City and are excited about the reunion. 

Houston C Clint Capela has battled injuries and will benefit greatly as the role man in head coach Mike D’Antoni’s offense. Eric Gordon will come off the bench to provide scoring punch for the Rockets.