Thursday’s NBA Playoffs action features two crucial Game 6 matchups, each with high stakes as both the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers face potential elimination. These teams are in a do-or-die situation and must secure a victory to extend their seasons and force a decisive Game 7. On the other side, the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks are in a position to close out their respective series with a win, advancing further in the playoffs.
Here are five NBA wagers you should consider Thursday:
Milwaukee Bucks @ Indiana Pacers – 6:30 p.m. ET
The Bucks delivered a strong performance in Game 5, defeating the Indiana Pacers 115-92 to extend their playoff run. Khris Middleton and Bobby Portis were instrumental in this victory, each scoring 29 points and securing double-doubles, with Middleton grabbing 12 rebounds and Portis 10 rebounds. Pat Beverley also made a significant contribution, achieving a double-double with 13 points and 12 assists. In contrast, the Pacers’ top scorer, Tyrese Haliburton, was held to just 16 points, reflecting a tough night for him and his team.
As the series now shifts back to Indiana for Game 6, the Pacers will be under pressure to utilize their home-court advantage to close out the series and avoid a Game 7. The potential return of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard could significantly influence the dynamics of the upcoming games, potentially boosting the Bucks’ performance further. The Pacers, aware of the heightened stakes, will need to strategize effectively and rally to secure a series win in front of their home crowd.
Tyrese Haliburton over 2.5 threes: -145 (bet365)
Haliburton’s evolution in three-point shooting throughout the series against the Bucks has been a key component of his offensive contributions. Initially, he was more restrained, attempting only three and seven threes in the first two games, respectively. However, as the series progressed, Haliburton notably increased his output, firing off 12 three-point attempts in both Games 3 and 4, and 10 in Game 5. His proficiency has also been commendable, hitting five threes in Game 3 and four in Game 5.
This upward trend in both the volume of attempts and shooting efficiency highlights Haliburton’s adaptation and growing confidence in his long-range shooting. Moving forward into the next game, given his recent form and increased reliance on three-point shooting, it’s reasonable to anticipate that Haliburton will exceed 2.5 made three-pointers.
Tyrese Haliburton over 2.5 threes
-145
Patrick Beverley over 0.5 threes: -140 (DraftKings)
Beverley has demonstrated a consistent ability to contribute from beyond the arc throughout this playoff series, despite his relatively low volume of three-point attempts. Successfully hitting at least one three-pointer in four out of the last five games, and notably in the last three consecutive games, indicates a notable trend in his shooting.
Although Beverley isn’t known for a high volume of three-point shooting, his ability to knock down crucial shots when needed has been evident. This consistency, coupled with his track record in the recent games, suggests that it is quite probable he will make at least one three-pointer in the upcoming game.
New York Knicks @ Philadelphia 76ers – 9:00 p.m. ET
The 76ers avoided elimination with a thrilling 112-106 overtime victory against the New York Knicks in Game 5, thanks largely to Maxey’s outstanding performance. Maxey was sensational, scoring 46 points, including a clutch 17 in the fourth quarter. His remarkable sequence of back-to-back threes tied the game in the final minute, forcing the contest into overtime. In addition to his scoring feat, Maxey contributed nine assists and five rebounds, playing a crucial role in keeping his team’s playoff aspirations alive.
On the Knicks’ side, Jalen Brunson was the standout performer, delivering 40 points along with three rebounds and six assists. Despite his efforts, the Knicks could not secure the win, setting the stage for another intense game in this tightly contested series.
Tyrese Maxey over 6.5 assists: -106 (Pinnacle)
Maxey’s role as a playmaker has been a critical element in the 76ers’ offensive strategy throughout their series against the Knicks. He has consistently generated a high number of assist opportunities, indicating his proactive involvement in creating plays for his teammates. Here’s a detailed breakdown of his assists and potential assists across the series:
- Game 1: Maxey had four assists from 10 potential assists.
- Game 2: He significantly improved, recording 10 assists from 16 potential assists.
- Game 3: Maxey continued his strong performance with seven assists from nine potential assists.
- Game 4: He logged six assists from 12 potential assists.
- Game 5: He further showcased his distributing prowess with nine assists from 12 potential assists.
This pattern of consistently high potential assists suggests that Maxey has been effectively finding his teammates and playing a key role in the 76ers’ offence. His ability to exceed the 6.5-assist threshold in three of the five games further underscores his capability as a facilitator. Considering his recent performances and the upward trend in his playmaking, it’s reasonable to expect Maxey to surpass the 6.5-assist mark again in Game 6. His ability to create and capitalize on assist opportunities has been evident, and he will likely continue to play a significant role as the 76ers seek to extend their playoff run.
Tyrese Maxey over 6.5 assists
-106
Jalen Brunson over 33.5 points: -115 (bet365)
Brunson’s performance in the playoff series against the 76ers has seen a remarkable uptick after the initial two games. His scoring outputs of 39, 47, and 40 points in the subsequent games highlight a significant shift in his offensive approach and execution. The high volume in his field goal attempts, consistently in the high-20s-to-mid-30s, underscores his role as a primary offensive weapon for the Knicks.
Given this trend and the crucial nature of Game 6, where the Knicks can advance with a win, Brunson’s role as a key scorer will be even more vital. His ability to handle pressure and deliver high-scoring performances underpins the expectation that he could very well surpass the 33.5-points mark again. His recent form, combined with the high volume of shots he is taking, positions him as a likely candidate to achieve or exceed this scoring threshold, as the Knicks rely on him to close the series.
O.G. Anunoby over 20.5 points + rebounds: -110 (bet365)
Anunoby has indeed stepped up significantly in the last three games for the Knicks, showing marked improvements in both scoring and rebounding. His performances have been crucial, with totals of 21, 30, and 23 points + rebounds combined in Games 3, 4, and 5, respectively. This uptrend is a clear indication of his increased role and effectiveness within the Knicks’ lineup, especially in the critical moments of the series.
As the Knicks prepare for a pivotal Game 6, Anunoby’s role as the second lead after Brunson becomes even more significant. His recent performances suggest he is well-prepared to take on a substantial load in scoring and rebounding. Given his current form and the stakes of the upcoming game, it is reasonable to expect Anunoby to continue his strong contributions and likely exceed the combined total of 20.5 points + rebounds.
