Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks Prediction | 01.21.26

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks Prediction, Odds & NBA Picks | 21-01-2026

The Fiserv Forum is set to host a compelling regular-season matchup on January 21, 2026, at 9:30 PM, as the surging Oklahoma City Thunder (36-8) visit the Milwaukee Bucks (18-24). While the Thunder boast one of the league’s best records, a closer look at the injury reports suggests this contest could be far more competitive than their standings imply.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks Matchup Preview

Oklahoma City Thunder Key Stats & Trends

The Oklahoma City Thunder have established themselves as a legitimate contender, spearheaded by MVP candidate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His remarkable season averages of 31.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, and 0.8 BPG highlight his two-way dominance. Rookie sensation Chet Holmgren has anchored their defense and rebounding, pulling down 8.4 RPG. The Thunder’s youthful energy and efficient offense have propelled them to an elite record, demonstrating exceptional chemistry and execution.

Injury Report Oklahoma City Thunder

• Alex Caruso (Out): Caruso (groin) is out for Wednesday’s game in Milwaukee.
• Jaylin Williams (Day-to-day): Williams is questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Bucks due to a left glute contusion.
• Isaiah Hartenstein (Out): Hartenstein (calf) has been ruled out for Wednesday’s game against the Bucks.
• Jalen Williams (Out): Williams (hamstring) will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
• Nikola Topic (Out): Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
• Thomas Sorber (Out): Sorber has sustained a torn ACL in his right knee during an offseason workout.

Milwaukee Bucks Key Stats & Trends

The Milwaukee Bucks, despite a sub-.500 record, possess one of the league’s most dominant forces in Giannis Antetokounmpo. The “Greek Freak” continues to put up monster numbers, averaging 28.5 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 5.5 APG, 0.9 SPG, and 0.8 BPG. While the team has struggled for consistency, particularly on the defensive end, Giannis remains a nightly triple-double threat capable of single-handedly impacting a game’s outcome. Playing at home, the Bucks will look to leverage his presence.

Injury Report Milwaukee Bucks

• Myles Turner (Day-to-day): Turner is listed as questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Thunder due to a sprained left ankle.
• Kevin Porter Jr. (Day-to-day): Porter is questionable for Wednesday’s game versus the Thunder due to an oblique strain.
• Taurean Prince (Out): The Bucks anticipate Prince to be unable to play through June 15.

Oklahoma City Thunder vs Milwaukee Bucks Prediction & Best Bet

Despite their impressive record, the Oklahoma City Thunder arrive in Milwaukee severely shorthanded. The absence of key rotation players like Alex Caruso, Isaiah Hartenstein, and especially Jalen Williams (a crucial secondary scorer and playmaker) will significantly impact their depth and defensive capabilities. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is an elite talent, the loss of these core pieces creates a substantial void.

The Milwaukee Bucks, playing at home, will lean heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even if Myles Turner is out, the Bucks have enough offensive firepower to exploit the Thunder’s depleted roster. Given the Thunder’s extensive injury list, the Bucks present a strong value pick.

Prediction: Milwaukee Bucks

Regarding the total points line of 227.5, both teams feature high-volume scorers. The Thunder, even with injuries, have SGA, while the Bucks have Giannis. OKC’s defensive integrity will be compromised without Caruso and Hartenstein, potentially leading to a more open game. The Bucks, playing at home, will likely push the pace. We anticipate both teams to find offensive rhythm.

Over/Under Pick: over 227.5