The 2021 NBA Finals feature one of the most unexpected matchups in recent league history. And, at the moment, the Phoenix Suns-Milwaukee Bucks showdown is one of the most difficult to predict.
The biggest reason? The two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who injured his left knee in Game 4 of the Bucks’ Eastern Conference final series against the Atlanta Hawks, is in doubt for Game 1. Whether the five-time All-Star is healthy enough to have a impact on the court, Milwaukee’s chances of its first NBA title since 1971 increase.
If Antetokounmpo is offside or limited throughout the series, Chris paul and the Suns could be on their way to the first franchise championship, and future Hall of Famer point guard.
Which team will win the title? Which star is the pick to take home the NBA Finals MVP honors? Let’s take a look at our experts’ predictions.
NBA Finals 5-5: analysis for Phoenix Suns vs. Milwaukee bucks
Jerry Bembry: Suns at 6
Nick DePaula: Bucks in 6 | MVP: Khris middleton
Nick Friedell: Bucks in 6 | MVP: Khris Middleton
Baxter Holmes: Suns at 6 | MVP: Chris paul
Zach Lowe: Suns at 7 | MVP: Chris Paul
Tim MacMahon: Suns at 7 | MVP: Chris Paul
Bobby Marks: Suns at 5 | MVP: Devin Booker
Dave McMenamin: Suns at 6 | MVP: Devin Booker
Monica McNutt: Suns at 7 | MVP: Chris Paul
Kevin Pelton: Suns at 7 | MVP: Chris Paul
Jorge Sedano: Suns at 7 | MVP: Chris Paul
Ramona Shelburne: Suns at 7 | MVP: Devin Booker
André Snellings: Bucks in 7 | MVP: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Marc J. Spears: Suns at 7 | MVP: Devin Booker
Royce Young: Suns at 6 | MVP: Devin Booker
Ohm Youngmisuk: Suns at 7 | MVP: Devin Booker
Results
Finals Winner
• Phoenix Suns: 13
• Milwaukee Bucks: 3
Finals MVP
• Devin Booker: 6
• Chris Paul: 6
• Khris Middleton: 2
• Giannis Antetokounmpo: 1