NBA 2018-19: Predicted Starting Lineups and Match Prediction - Orlando Magic vs Milwaukee Bucks
The league-leading Milwaukee Bucks will host the Orlando Magic in a regular-season matchup at the Fiserv Forum on Sunday. This will be the third and the final time these two teams go at each other this season, with the Bucks having already clinched the series 2-0.
The Milwaukee Bucks' perspective
The Bucks are having their best season in a very long time. Even though the entire roster has been contributing hugely to their success, Giannis has been the cornerstone and is the frontrunner for league MVP.
The Greek Freak is averaging 27.0 points, 12.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game and the Bucks sit firmly at the top of the association standings. Two of their players, Giannis and Khris Middleton, have been named All-Stars, with the power forward being named the captain of one of the teams.
The Bucks have an easier schedule this month and will be looking to capitalize on it and win as many games as possible. They also have much-needed depth in their line-up and are easily the favorites to come out of the East.
Predicted Milwaukee Bucks starting line-up:
Giannis Antetokounmpo (F), Khris Middleton (F), Brook Lopez (C), Malcolm Brogdon (G) and Eric Bledsoe (G)
The Orlando Magic's perspective
The Orlando Magic have a well-balanced roster, on paper. However, they are struggling to close out games and at 23-32, they have an uphill task to secure a spot in the playoffs. Nikola Vucevic is having a breakout season and will be involved in the All-Star Game.
He has been dominating the opposition in the paint all season long and is averaging a double-double over the season with 20.6 points and 11.9 rebounds per game. Aaron Gordon, who signed a four-year, $84 million deal with the franchise, has also been impressive so far.
Just before the trade deadline, they traded Jonathon Simmons to Philadelphia 76ers, along with draft picks, in exchange for Markelle Fultz.
Predicted Orlando Magic starting lineup:
Aaron Gordon (F), Jonathan Isaac (F), Nikola Vucevic (C), Evan Fourier (G) and D.J. Augustin (G)
How things might unfold
While the Milwaukee Bucks have the best defensive rating in the league at 103.7, the Orlando Magic are definitely struggling to keep it going on the defensive end. The Bucks also have a better three-point shooting percentage than the Magic. Playing at home, the Bucks will have an added advantage and should easily hold off the Magic.
Prediction
Bucks for the win.