Dec. 31 Bucks vs Pacers: Predictions, Picks, Player Props & Odds

• The Indiana Pacers host the Milwaukee Bucks on New Year’s Eve at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
• The Bucks are just 5-9 on the road this season, while the Pacers are a solid 8-5 at home
• Below, see the Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers predictions, player props, and best odds on Dec. 31

Two of the most frustratingly inconsistent teams in the league this season meet on New Year’s Eve as the Milwaukee Bucks (16-14, 5-9 away, 13-17-1 ATS) visit the Indiana Pacers (16-17, 8-5 home, 14-18-1 ATS) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in a matinee that tips off at 3:10 pm ET. Though the Bucks are an ugly 5-9 on the road this year, they are 1.5-point favorites in Tuesday’s NBA odds.

Milwaukee Bucks vs Indiana Pacers Predictions

• Pacers moneyline (+104) at FanDuel
• Under 230.0 (-110) at bet365 Odds as of Dec. 31. Download the top NBA betting apps to land the best bonuses for New Year’s Eve. 

The enigmatic Bucks appear to have entered another downturn. Since winning the 2024 NBA Cup in impressive fashion, the Bucks are just 2-3, including back-to-back losses to the 12-20 Brooklyn Nets (111-105 home) and 15-18 Chicago Bulls (116-111 away).

Of course, Giannis Antetokounmpo (32.7 PPG, 11.6 RPG, 6.0 APG) hasn’t played in the team’s last four games due to an unspecified “illness” (non-COVID). Oddsmakers clearly expect him back in the lineup on Tuesday, based on both the spread and the player props (see below), which list both Giannis and four of five Milwaukee starters. But the official injury report lists the two-time MVP as questionable.

The Pacers have been equally inconsistent as the Bucks and have lost three of their last four at home. But Indiana is still a solid 9-5 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse this year and is coming off a hugely impressive 123-114 road win at the reigning-champion Celtics on Sunday.

Tyrese Haliburton (17.8 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 8.7 APG), whose production is down almost across the board this season, played like the All-Star he was last year, scoring a game-high 31 with seven assists and six rebounds.

The Bucks won the first meeting between the teams this season (129-117 at home on Nov. 22) but the Pacers had their number last year, winning four of five, including both games in Indianapolis.

In addition to the Indiana moneyline, I also like the under on the inflated total of 230.0. The Pacers, whose games averaged 243.5 PPG last season, are playing at a much more conservative pace this season and, as a result, their PPG average is down 12 points (231.5 PPG).

Bucks games are averaging 223.7 PPG and they haven’t gone over 229.5 in any of their last eight.

MIL vs IND Player Props

NBA player props from DraftKings on Dec. 31.

A frequent site, Giannis leads the Bucks/Pacers player props on Tuesday with a point total of 30.5, with teammate Damian Lillard next at 25.5. Four different Pacers players have a total between 14.5 and 18.5.

Giannis also has the highest rebound total at 12.5 while Tyrese Haliburton has the highest assist total at 8.5.

Best Bucks vs Pacers Odds

The Milwaukee Bucks will face off against the Indiana Pacers on December 31st in what is sure to be an exciting matchup. Both teams have been playing well this season, with the Bucks currently sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference and the Pacers not far behind in the standings.

When it comes to predictions for this game, it’s always tough to say for sure how things will play out. Both teams have strong rosters and talented players who are capable of making big plays. However, the Bucks have been on a hot streak lately and are coming off a dominant win against the Miami Heat. With players like Giannis Antetokounmpo leading the charge, the Bucks are definitely a force to be reckoned with.

On the other hand, the Pacers have also been playing well and have some key players who can make a difference in this game. Domantas Sabonis has been a standout player for the Pacers this season, averaging a double-double in points and rebounds. If he can continue his strong play against the Bucks, the Pacers could have a chance at pulling off an upset.

In terms of picks for this game, it’s always a good idea to consider factors like recent performance, injuries, and head-to-head matchups. The Bucks have a slight edge in this game, but the Pacers are a talented team that should not be underestimated. It could go either way, so it’s important to do your research and make an informed decision before placing any bets.

When it comes to player props, there are a few key players to keep an eye on in this game. Giannis Antetokounmpo is always a safe bet when it comes to player props, as he is capable of putting up big numbers in points, rebounds, and assists. Malcolm Brogdon is another player to watch for the Pacers, as he has been a consistent scorer and playmaker for the team this season.

As for odds, the Bucks are likely to be favored in this game, but anything can happen in basketball. It’s always a good idea to shop around for the best odds and consider factors like home-court advantage and recent performance when making your bets.

Overall, this game between the Bucks and Pacers should be a competitive and entertaining matchup. Both teams have something to prove and will be looking to come out on top. It’s sure to be a game worth watching for any basketball fan.