The Phoenix Suns and Milwaukee Bucks face off in the 2021 NBA Finals, with Game 1 tipping off Tuesday night in Phoenix. The Suns enter as 5.5-point favorites and -154 favorites to win the series, while the Bucks are +125 underdogs.

The Suns reached the Finals by defeating the Lakers, Nuggets, and Clippers, losing just 4 games total in their playoff run. Their defense has been exceptional, allowing only 107.4 points per game in the regular season and performing even better in the playoffs.

Key Players for Phoenix:

• Devin Booker: 27 PPG in playoffs
• Deandre Ayton: 16.2 PPG, 11.8 RPG
• Chris Paul: Veteran leader in his first Finals appearance

The Bucks advanced by sweeping the Heat, upsetting the Nets, and defeating the Hawks in six games. However, they face uncertainty around Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is doubtful for Game 1 with a knee injury suffered in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Without Giannis, Milwaukee will rely heavily on:

• Khris Middleton: Scored 16 straight points in series clincher vs Hawks
• Jrue Holiday: Must step up scoring and playmaking

Series Outlook:

• Phoenix has home court advantage
• Suns' defensive prowess gives them edge
• Giannis' health status could be series-defining factor
• Expect close games but Suns have momentum and deeper roster

The Bucks will make it competitive, but Phoenix's combination of defense, home court advantage, and momentum makes them the clear favorite to win the championship.

Related Articles

Previous Articles