The Bucks are at least one tier above the Lakers and have strong motivation after suffering an embarrassing, 125-90, road loss to the Warriors two days ago. Giannis Antetokounmpo was especially vocal about the Bucks' bad loss.

Milwaukee had been playing its best defensive ball of the season before that defeat, holding its previous five foes to an average of 96.8 points.

The Bucks are 6-1 in their last seven games. The Lakers are 1-4 ATS in their past five home games.

There's a chance LeBron James doesn't play for the Lakers after he left the Lakers' last game with ankle soreness against the Kings this past Wednesday.

I like the Bucks to win even if James plays. It's just an extra cherry if James doesn't suit up.