It may surprise you to know that Milwaukee has the second-best record in the NBA so far. The Bucks have built up this mark in large part because of an 8-1 home mark, 7-1-1 ATS. The Bucks have won every one of their home games except one by 11 or more points.

The Bucks have matched up well to the Trail Blazers in recent seasons going 11-3-1 ATS versus them. One of the losses, however, occurred on Nov. 6 in Portland. The Trail Blazers buried the Bucks, 118-103. The Bucks' other three losses have been by an average of three points. 

That embarrassement to Portland remains fresh in the minds of the Bucks coming just two weeks ago. The spot sets up well for Milwaukee. The Bucks catch the Trail Blazers playing their fourth road game in six days and second in two nights. Portland was taxed by the Knicks last night, winning 118-114, with four of its players logging more than 30 minutes. 

The Trail Blazers rely heavily on their outstanding backcourt tandem of CJ McCollum and Damian Lillard. McCollum played more than 38 minutes against the Knicks, while Lillard saw more than 36 minutes of action. 

Portland is out of the gate fast, too, at 12-5. The Trail Blazers have been fortunate with their early-season schedule, though. They beat the Rockets when Houston didn't have James Harden. They also have played a combined seven games versus the Lakers, Timbewolves and Wizards. Those three teams have all been struggling to find their identity.