Milwaukee Bucks vs New Orleans Pelicans Betting Pick & Prediction for 2/20

The Milwaukee Bucks will visit the New Orleans Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center on February 20, 2026. The game starts at 8:00 PM and will be aired on FDSW. The Bucks have a record of 23-30, while the Pelicans are at 15-41 this season.
Milwaukee is led by head coach Doc Rivers and holds the 11th spot in the Eastern Conference. The Pelicans, coached by interim head coach James Borrego, sit 14th in the Western Conference. Both teams are looking to improve their standings as the season progresses.
Bucks vs Pelicans Game Day Info
- Sport: NBA
- Teams: Milwaukee Bucks vs. New Orleans Pelicans
- Venue: Smoothie King Center
- Date: Friday, February 20, 2026
- Betting Odds: Pelicans -3.5 (-111), Bucks +3.5 (-110), Over/Under 222.5
Milwaukee Bucks Team Preview
The Milwaukee Bucks have seen success in recent games. They won against the Oklahoma City Thunder, scoring 110 points with a field goal percentage of 46.3%. Ousmane Dieng stood out with 19 points, 11 rebounds, and 6 assists in that game.
In the previous game against the Orlando Magic, the Bucks secured a win with a score of 116-108. Kevin Porter Jr. played a key role, recording a triple-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists. Cam Thomas was also impressive, contributing 34 points in just 25 minutes of play.
On the season, the Bucks score an average of 111.8 points per game. Their field goal percentage is high at 48.1%, ranking 5th in the league. However, they struggle with free throws, making just 14.5 per game, the lowest in the NBA.
New Orleans Pelicans Team Preview
The New Orleans Pelicans have had mixed results in their recent games. They lost to the Miami Heat 123-111 at home. Zion Williamson had 25 points and Trey Murphy III added 19 points in that game.
In a previous game, the Pelicans won against the Sacramento Kings with a score of 120-94. Trey Murphy III led with 21 points, while Jeremiah Fears added 20. Zion Williamson also contributed 18 points and six assists.
The Pelicans have some challenges with injuries. Trey Murphy III is doubtful due to a shoulder issue. Dejounte Murray and Yves Missi are both out, affecting the team’s depth.
BTB Betting Pick
The Bucks are the pick to cover the spread at +3.5 (-110). The Pelicans allow 120.4 points per game, which ranks 26th. The Bucks’ strong three-point shooting at 39.2% (2nd) gives them an edge to keep the game close.
For the over/under, the recommendation is to take the over 222.5 (-110). Both teams allow a high number of points, with the Pelicans at 120.4 and the Bucks at 115.2. This suggests a high-scoring game, likely pushing the total over the line.