76ers’ Rival Bucks Could Clinch Playoff Spot vs. Kings
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The Milwaukee Bucks might become the first team to clinch a spot in the playoffs on Tuesday.
It seems there is only a matter of time before the Philadelphia 76ers punch their ticket to the playoffs once again, but they likely won’t be the first team in the Eastern Conference to get it done.
On Tuesday night, Sixers’ Eastern Conference rival, the Milwaukee Bucks, have an opportunity to become the first NBA team to clinch a spot in the postseason.
What will it take for the Bucks to get it done as early as Monday? According to NBA, Milwaukee can clinch their spot in the playoffs by first defeating the Sacramento Kings on Monday night. Second, the Miami Heat would need to come up short against the Utah Jazz.
This year, the Bucks have been on quite the tear. Despite dealing with some key injury concerns throughout the start of the season, Milwaukee constantly found success. At this point in the season, the Bucks hold a 48-19 record, which places them at the top of the Eastern Conference.
While they trailed the Boston Celtics for roughly half the year, Milwaukee eventually found its way out in front. The Bucks are currently ahead of the Celtics by 1.5 games.
As for the Sixers, they remain in the third seed. On a five-game win streak and holding a 45-22 record, the Sixers still trail three games behind the Bucks.
Philadelphia’s tough schedule continues on Wednesday night when they pay a visit to the Cleveland Cavaliers for the second and final time this year.
What’re the Chances Milwaukee Clinches Tuesday?
Currently, Milwaukee is amidst a 13-game win streak over the Kings. The first time the two teams faced off this year was back in December. The Bucks defeated the Kings 126-113. Milwaukee’s all-time record against Sacramento is 95-58
According to SI Sportsbook, the Bucks are favored by 1.5 on Tuesday.
As far as the other scenario goes, the Miami Heat are currently on a four-game win streak against the Jazz. Back on New Year’s Eve, the two teams met, and Miami came out on top with a tight 126-123 win.
Per SI Sportsbook’s odds, the Heat are heavy favorites by 12.5 points. Utah might be on a two-game win streak, but they are 13-22 on the road this year and have won only half of their last ten games. Meanwhile, Miami is 22-13 when playing in South Beach this season.
Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.