Lakers vs Bucks Prediction, Odds & Game Preview 3/20/2025

The Los Angeles Lakers look to extend their impressive 28-7 home record as they welcome a Milwaukee Bucks team desperately searching for answers after dropping five of their last seven games and holding an emergency team meeting between Giannis, Lillard, and Doc Rivers.

While the Lakers are riding high on a three-game win streak behind Luka Doncic's stellar play, they'll face the challenge of a back-to-back without LeBron James (leg) and possibly Rui Hachimura (knee), against a Bucks squad that dominated them in a 20-point blowout just last week.

The home team Lakers (42-25) aim to maintain their push for the West's second seed against the visiting Bucks (38-30), who'll try to leverage their superior three-point shooting (ranked 2nd in the NBA at 38.3%) and rest advantage at Crypto.com Arena.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Milwaukee Bucks preview

The Lakers and Bucks are set for an intriguing cross-conference clash at Crypto.com Arena, with both teams navigating through different challenges as the season enters its crucial phase.

Milwaukee's recent struggles have prompted a team meeting between Giannis, Lillard, and Doc Rivers, following tough losses to the Thunder and Warriors - but they've shown they can handle the Lakers, having dominated them in a 20-point win just last week.

The Lakers' home court advantage could be the x-factor here, as they've been nearly unstoppable at Crypto.com Arena with an impressive 28-7 record, though they'll be missing LeBron James's leadership and scoring punch due to a leg injury.

Keep an eye on Austin Reaves, who's been on fire lately for the Lakers, dropping 30 points against the Spurs and showing he can step up when needed.

The Bucks' three-point shooting prowess (ranking second in the league at 38.3%) will be tested against LA's stingy perimeter defense, which has held opponents to just 34.9% from deep this season.

This matchup features an interesting contrast in styles - Milwaukee's up-tempo offense against the Lakers' more methodical approach, with LA averaging nearly two fewer possessions per 48 minutes.

Giannis Antetokounmpo's recent form (averaging 30.2 points and 12 rebounds) suggests he could be the difference-maker, especially with the Lakers playing on the second night of a back-to-back.

With playoff positioning at stake - the Lakers fighting for the second seed in the West and the Bucks looking to climb from fifth in the East - this late-season showdown carries extra weight for both squads.