NBA Picks April 6, 2025: Bucks vs Pelicans Prediction & Best Bets

Kingpin
Apr 6, 2025, 12:04:51 PM

Milwaukee Bucks vs New Orleans Pelicans – 8:30 PM ET – Smoothie King Center (GCSEN)

Spread: Bucks -9
Over/Under: 220.5
Moneyline: Bucks -400, Pelicans +320

Game Preview:

Sunday night in New Orleans features one of the more lopsided matchups on the board as the playoff-bound Milwaukee Bucks visit a depleted Pelicans team that’s down to second and third-stringers across the board. The Bucks enter on a three-game win streak and are jockeying for position in the crowded Eastern Conference playoff race. The Pelicans, meanwhile, are in full shutdown mode with eight players ruled out — including Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, and Trey Murphy III.

Milwaukee comes in averaging 114.9 points per game on 48.5% shooting while holding opponents to just under 113. Giannis Antetokounmpo is in peak form, averaging 30.4 PPG and 11.9 RPG, while Bobby Portis and Kyle Kuzma have stepped up with Damian Lillard sidelined. The Bucks have covered the spread in 7 of their last 9 and have shown they can still dominate even when shorthanded — especially against weaker competition.

The Pelicans are effectively waving the white flag. They’ve lost 12 of their last 16 and are allowing nearly 120 points per game in that stretch. Without Zion, McCollum, Herb Jones, and others, they lack a true scoring threat or defensive anchor. New Orleans has failed to cover in 5 of its last 6 home games vs East opponents with winning records, and they’ve lost 10 straight when playing with a rest advantage. That spells major concern against a Bucks team still playing for playoff seeding.

Check out these articles for winning picks:

Best Bet: Bucks -9

Even on the second leg of a back-to-back, this is a spot where the Bucks should dominate. The Pelicans aren’t rolling out an NBA-caliber roster and are giving up points in bunches. Milwaukee’s depth and playoff urgency give them a massive edge here. Expect a wire-to-wire cover from a team that’s locked in, even without Lillard. This is one of the NBA best bets today on a slate filled with late-season landmines.

Top Player Prop: Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 11.5 Rebounds

With New Orleans missing its two best rebounders and interior defenders, Giannis is set up to dominate the glass. He’s grabbed 12+ boards in 5 of his last 7 and should cruise past this number against a Pelicans team getting torched in the paint. One of the top NBA player props today given the matchup and injury situation.

Bucks vs Pelicans Betting Trends:

Bucks are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games
Bucks are 6-0 ATS in their last six road games
Pelicans are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 home games vs winning East teams
Under is 14-2 in the Bucks’ last 16 road games on the second night of a back-to-back
Pelicans’ last 6 night home games after a road loss have gone Under the total

Bucks vs Pelicans FAQ

Who is favored in Bucks vs Pelicans tonight?
The Milwaukee Bucks are 9-point road favorites over the New Orleans Pelicans.

What time does Bucks vs Pelicans tip off?
The game starts at 8:30 PM ET on Sunday, April 6, 2025, and airs on GCSEN.

What is the total for Bucks vs Pelicans?
The current Over/Under is set at 220.5 points.

Are the Pelicans missing key players?
Yes — New Orleans will be without Zion Williamson, CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, and more. Jose Alvarado is questionable.

Is Giannis playing tonight?
Yes, Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to play and will likely be the focal point of Milwaukee’s offense and rebounding.

What are the best NBA player props for this game?
Top picks include Giannis Antetokounmpo Over 11.5 rebounds and Bobby Portis Over 14.5 points as both should see increased usage.