Will Giannis Antetokounmpo & Chris Paul Play? Milwaukee Bucks vs Phoenix Suns Game 5: Prediction, Injuries, and Lineups

The critics had discarded the Milwaukee Bucks after they had lost the first two NBA Finals games with a double-figure margin. However, their myopic sight could not comprehend the Bucks’ potential as the team proved every prediction wrong. Yet, the Bucks can’t afford to get complacent against a unit as dangerous as the Phoenix Suns.

The biggest problem for the Suns in their current series has been the inconsistency from their key players. While Devin Booker failed miserably in Game 3, it was Chris Paul who followed the suit in Game 4. The Bucks might also secretly fear one such fate if one of Khris Middleton or Jrue Holiday has a poor night. 

So which side has better odds to win Game 5?

Milwaukee Bucks vs Phoenix Suns: Injury updates and lineup prediction

The Bucks saw an unfortunate incident when starter Donte DiVincenzo hurt his foot during Game 3 against the Miami Heat. A foot surgery followed on his torn ligament and that ended his postseason run.

Potential starting lineup – PJ Tucker (F), Giannis Antetokounmpo (F), Brook Lopez (C), Khris Middleton (G), and Jrue Holiday (G) 

On 8th July, the Phoenix squad temporarily lost power forward Dario Saric. He had played for just 2 minutes in Game 1 when he tore his Achilles and that forced him out of the series.

Probable starting five – Mikal Bridges (F), Jae Crowder (F), DeAndre Ayton (C), Devin Booker (G), and Chris Paul (G)

Read more – ‘Easier for Us to Win’: Bucks Co-owner Explains the Importance of Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Decision to Stay

Who wins? 

In Game 4, Devin Booker was the devil on show for the Suns. The 24-YO enjoyed a perfect 7/7 Q3 and scored 18 points after coach Monty Williams called him out because of all the fouls stacking up. It was him sitting out for 5/12 minutes in the decisive quarter that made all the difference and allowed the Bucks to win. This, because everyone else was struggling to score against an impressive defense.

Now, it is a lot on Chris Paul to dust away his nervousness and be the Game 1 CP3 if they want to challenge the deer. But to stop the veteran, Mike Budenholzer’s squad has Jrue Holiday and that is working just fine for downtown. Throw in the clutch abilities of Khris Middleton and this Milwaukee side is a complete pain for their opponents.

Nonetheless, the major advantage with the Suns would be Devin’s form and the crazy crowd support. Still, we believe that the Bucks will overcome those obstacles this time around. So our prediction is a 3-point Bucks win.

Watch this story – Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Sensational Block, Devin Booker’s Insane Fadeaway, & Much More from NBA Finals Game 4