Bucks vs Thunder Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/16/2025

The red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder (54-12) roll into Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum looking to build on their impressive season against a Bucks squad (37-28) that's searching for consistency in a challenging year.

This clash pits the NBA's fourth-best scoring offense in OKC (119.7 points per game) against Giannis Antetokounmpo and a Bucks team that's been surprisingly vulnerable on the defensive end this season, despite their typically strong home court advantage.

The Milwaukee Bucks will need their superstar Giannis, fresh off a 24-point performance against the Lakers, to counter Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder's league-leading defense that's holding opponents to just 107.2 points per game.

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder preview

The red-hot Oklahoma City Thunder roll into Milwaukee's Fiserv Forum looking to build on their impressive 54-12 record, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander fresh off a stellar 34-point performance against the Celtics.

While the Bucks haven't quite hit their usual dominant stride this season, sitting at 37-28, they're still a force to be reckoned with at home, especially with Giannis Antetokounmpo coming off a solid 24-point, 12-rebound showing against the Lakers.

The Thunder's lockdown defense has been their secret weapon this year - they're holding opponents to a measly 107.2 points per game, second-best in the league, while forcing nearly 18 turnovers per contest.

Milwaukee's offense remains potent, hitting 48.2% from the field (fifth in the NBA), but they'll need to clean up their ball handling against OKC's aggressive defense.

The matchup between Gilgeous-Alexander and the Bucks' perimeter defenders should be fascinating - SGA's been carving up defenses all season with his crafty drives and mid-range game.

Keep an eye on the battle of the boards - both teams average around 44 rebounds per game, and second-chance points could make the difference in what promises to be a tight contest.

This clash of styles - OKC's suffocating defense against Milwaukee's efficient offense - should make for some compelling basketball at the Fiserv Forum.