Toronto visits Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee on Friday at 8:00 p.m. ET. The Raptors are looking to bounce back from a poor second half at Denver, while Milwaukee is trying to break a four-game losing streak. Toronto is favored by 7.5 points, with a total of 231.5. The spread play depends on Scottie Barnes’ availability.
See the complete schedule on our NBA picks and predictions page.
Toronto Needs a Better Second Half Than It Got in Denver
Toronto is 4-4 overall and 2-3 on the road. The Raptors lost 128-109 at Denver Wednesday after beating the Clippers 125-118 on Monday. They scored 67 before halftime against Denver, then managed only 42 in the second half.
The Raptors average 117.9 points and allow 113.5. Milwaukee’s defense gives them a chance to recover, but Toronto needs to move the ball before help gets set. The Raptors should also be able to control the game without speeding up if they defend well enough to keep the Bucks from scoring off misses.
RJ Barrett scored 22 against Denver, while Barnes added 17. Barnes was listed questionable with an adductor issue on the early report. His absence or a meaningful minutes restriction would make it harder for Toronto to create shots and finish defensive possessions, so the spread is a pass in either case.
Milwaukee Cannot Keep Giving Opponents Easy Answers
Milwaukee is 1-7 overall and 1-3 at home. The Bucks lost 109-102 at Boston Wednesday. They were tied at 97 late in the fourth quarter but gave up the next seven points, turning a winnable game into another loss.
The Bucks average 110.0 points and allow 122.2. They kept Boston’s score well below that defensive average but still had trouble turning stops into a late lead. Against Toronto, Milwaukee needs to finish possessions with a rebound and keep the Raptors from putting together quick scoring runs.
Tyler Herro scored 25 against Boston after scoring 21 against Minnesota. He gives Milwaukee a way to stay close late, but the Bucks need another source of offense when Toronto sends extra attention his way. Getting to the rim would help them avoid relying on tough jumpers for an entire quarter.
Raptors vs Bucks Picks and Predictions
Spread Pick: Toronto Raptors -7.5, Conditional on Barnes
With Barnes available and no significant restriction expected, I like Toronto -7.5. Milwaukee’s defense has allowed too many good shots, and Toronto has enough secondary scoring to take advantage. Boston’s narrow win Wednesday is a reminder that the Bucks can hang around. If Barnes sits or is limited, pass rather than asking Toronto to cover the same number with less creation and defensive range.
Total Pick: Under 231.5
Milwaukee’s season defense is the main danger to the under. Toronto could score freely if the Bucks cannot handle the first drive. But Milwaukee has scored 100 and 102 in its last two, and Toronto can build a lead without needing a fast game. I’m looking for the Bucks’ contribution to keep this under. Projection: Toronto 119, Milwaukee 108.
Final Picks: Toronto -7.5 if Barnes plays without a significant restriction, and Under 231.5. Projected winner: Toronto.
Completed November 5, 2026. Confirm Barnes’ status and the available line before tipoff.