Why You Need to Bet on Khris Middleton in Game 2 of Bucks vs. Heat

The NBA Playoffs are underway, and the Milwaukee Bucks find themselves facing a surprising 1-0 deficit after losing Game 1 of their First Round series to the Miami Heat. With Giannis Antetokounmpo's status up in the air for Game 2, the Bucks will rely heavily on their other star - Khris Middleton to step up in a big way.

Middleton has been an integral part of the Bucks all season long, averaging 15.1 points, 4.9 assists and 4.2 rebounds in the second half of the season after returning from his own injury. Those numbers have ticked up in recent weeks, and Middleton had a huge game in Game 1. There's plenty of ways to bet Middleton tonight, and here's what we would recommend.

RELATED: Bucks vs. Heat Prediction and Picks

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Why you should bet on Khris Middleton vs. Miami

Game 1 was an odd contest. Giannis went down early in the game and did not return, throwing off the Bucks' entire gameplan and sucking the life out of the entire home crowd. Middleton was immediately forced into a primary option role, and he thrived individually. Middleton scored 33 points on 20 shot attempts, and tacked on nine rebounds and four assists for good measure.

Whether or not Antetokounmpo is available, Middleton will likely get another heavy workload. He has a history of impressive playoff performances, and with the Bucks desperate to win to even the series, we expect him to be featured in a massive way.

Which bets should you make?

Our model has identified three Khris Middleton props with an edge tonight:

BET: Khris Middleton Over 2.5 3-Pointers Made (+120 on DraftKings)

Our Projection: 3.6   Edge: 15.3%

Going back to 2001, Middleton has gone Over 2.5 3PM is six of his last 10 playoff games, and 12 of his last 21 playoff games. In the final month of the regular season, Middleton averaged 5.1 3PA but in Game 1, he attempted seven three pointers with Giannis out.  If he shoots seven threes again, we love these chances.

BET: Khris Middleton Over 20.5 Points (-102 on FanDuel)

Our Projection: 26.5   Edge: 11.2%

DimersBOT absolutely loves this prop following Middleton's 33-point outing in Game 1. In his last six playoff games, Middleton is averaging 24.7 points per game, and with a hobbled Anteteokounmpo, this has great value at FanDuel.

BET: Khris Middleton Over 2.5 Turnovers (-135 at BetMGM)

Our Projection: 3.9   Edge: 6.8%

It's not all positive for Middleton. While a heavier-usage role likely will lead to higher production in points and three-point attempts, it also will likely lead to more turnovers than normal. Middleton turned it over a whopping five times in Game 1, has gone over this number in five consecutive playoff games, and is averaging 4.3 turnovers in the process.

For more insights into tonight’s NBA play-in matchups and beyond, check out our Game Predictions, Best Props, profitable Trends and Futures odds.