The first game of TNT’s double-header will feature a Heat vs. Bucks matchup at 7:30 p.m. ET. With the Bucks laying seven points as a home favorite and the total sitting at 225 points, what’s the smart bet in tonight’s game in Milwaukee?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Miami Heat (+7) at Milwaukee Bucks (-7); o/u 225
7:30 p.m. ET, Thursday, January 23, 2025
Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, WI
TV: TNT/truTV/Max
Heat vs. Bucks Public Betting: Bettors Road Underdog
Our NBA Public Betting Information page indicates that 57% of public bettors are currently backing the Heat when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Heat suspend Butler two games
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Heat are suspending Jimmy Butler for two games for missing the team’s flight to Milwaukee. The seven-game suspension Butler served earlier this month was not the last of his disciplinary issues. According to Charania, the Heat forward missed Miami’s flight to Milwaukee for Thursday’s game against the Bucks. While Butler reportedly planned to rejoin his teammates on Wednesday night, he’ll remain home for Miami’s two-game road trip. His next opportunity to play will be Monday night against Orlando. Nikola Jovic and Jaime Jaquez Jr. are the players to target with Butler suspended.
Bucks have game postponed vs. Pelicans
Wednesday’s scheduled matchup between the Bucks and Pelicans has been postponed due to a snow storm in New Orleans. NBA insider Chris B. Haynes reports that “many roads are closed off and icy” in New Orleans. He also notes that the Bucks host the Heat on Thursday, and there is concern that the Bucks will not be able to leave New Orleans in time to make it back to Milwaukee. Fantasy managers will need to be proactive and identify a contingency plan for players who could potentially be unavailable for that one too.
Heat vs. Bucks NBA Prediction:
Take the over. While the under has hit in back-to-back games between these two teams, the over is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings. The over is also 6-4 in the Heat’s last 10 games, cashing in four straight Miami games. On the other side, the over cashed in seven out of the Bucks’ last 10 games overall and hit in six consecutive Milwaukee games entering play tonight.
Heat vs. Bucks Betting Prediction: OVER 225