With Cleveland dipping to an even record in their last 10 games, Boston has overtaken the top spot in the Eastern Conference with their four-game winning streak. The Celtics have been rolling on offense with an average of 115.3 points in the last four victories. The Bucks are also on the winning path, taking four out of their last five contests, including a recent 118-108 win over Charlotte. Tipoff for this matchup is set for 7:30 PM Eastern time on Wednesday night and it will be televised on FSN Wisconsin and CSN New England.
Bucks (38-36, 2nd Central)
Milwaukee is still fighting for a playoff opportunity and is tied with Atlanta for the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference. Both teams are only clear of the final spot by two games, so the Bucks still have to find those victories down the stretch. Unlike the Hawks that have struggled, Milwaukee has been winning recently. One of their last four wins includes a 100-97 victory over Atlanta.
Small forward Michael Beasley (9.7 ppg, 3.6 rpg) is doubtful for this game with a sprained left knee injury. He's been out of action since February 27th and he's nearing a return, but it won't be this matchup. Giannis Antetokounmpo (23.1 ppg, 8.5 rpg) is coming off of a performance with 20 points and 8 boards against Charlotte.
Celtics (48-26, 1st Atlantic)
Boston's offense has been lights-out in their recent action. They continue to be one of the best closing teams in the league, scoring an average of 28.2 points in the final quarters -- more points than any other period in a game. Their home winning streak also extends to seven games, their last loss being to Atlanta back on February 27th.
Point guard Isaiah Thomas (29.1 ppg, 5.9 apg) has been solid since his return from a knee injury earlier this month. He's put down two consecutive games of 30 or more points. Power forward Jonas Jerebko (3.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg) is still struggling with a sore knee, but will continue to be played sparingly.
The Celtics are favored by a whopping 7.5 points in this game and the total O/U is set at 209 points. The Bucks are 10-4 against the spread in their last 14 meetings in Boston.
