GST Staff

Bucks vs. Thunder Prediction, Odds, Best Prop Bets December 17, 2024

Scorching Thunder Look to Douse Bucks in Battle of NBA Elites

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The Oklahoma City Thunder are riding a scorching hot streak, winning their last five games and nine of their last ten. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, averaging a blistering 123 points over this recent five-game stretch while holding opponents to just 101.4 points per contest. The Thunder's balanced attack is clicking, with nearly 30 assists per game while shooting a shade above 48 percent from the field and hovering around 37 percent from beyond the arc.

Defensively, the Thunder have been stifling, grabbing almost 50 rebounds while forcing over 13 steals and blocking 5 shots per game during this torrid run. Their length and athleticism have caused havoc for opposing offenses, limiting teams to just over 40 percent shooting while keeping turnovers in check at 10.4 per contest. With their well-rounded play, the Thunder have surged to an 80 percent win rate on the season, firmly establishing themselves among the league's elite.

Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks have hit a bit of a rough patch, going 3-2 in their last five despite averaging 113.8 points on an impressive 50.6 percent shooting. Their three-point stroke has been on point at 42.5 percent, but they've struggled to get stops, allowing 110.8 points per game while forcing just 7.2 steals. The Bucks will need to tighten up defensively and limit turnovers (15 per game over this stretch) to keep pace with the surging Thunder.

While the Bucks' recent form has been solid at 8-2 over their last 10, the Thunder's dominance over that same span (9-1) gives them a clear edge heading into this marquee matchup. Oklahoma City's balanced offensive onslaught and stifling defensive intensity present a daunting challenge for Milwaukee as the Thunder look to extend their blazing hot streak on their home floor.