The Bucks’ season has been a rollercoaster. It’s been a series of constant ups and downs. The only thing consistent with this Milwaukee team is their inconsistency. Milwaukee’s loss against the Orlando Magic represented their inconsistencies. It felt like they were constantly dangling on two poles. The team from Wisconsin has had a strange season. Despite, clinching the Central Division Crown and being the 3rd seed in the East, this regular season is considered a disappointment from sources inside and outside the organization.
Pacers in the Playoffs
Milwaukee plays The Indiana Pacers in the playoffs. This is a dangerous matchup for the Bucks. The Pacers have had their number throughout this season. They beat them on 4 occasions in the regular season and the semi-finals of the inaugural In-Season Tournament. It took Giannis scoring a franchise-record 64 points for the Bucks to finally get one over the Pacers. Even that game left a bitter memory with Bucks fans after their Greek Star got into a scuffle.
Doc’s Magic
The only positive from this playoff matchup is the fact that Doc Rivers is now the Bucks coach. In his first practice session, he took the responsibility of improving Milwaukee’s transition defense. This new asset and tenacity will be the X-Factor. It will be particularly important against Tyrese Haliburton and Co. Nevertheless, it’ll be a tough matchup for The Bucks against the 2nd best offensive side in the league.
Buck’s Barren Run
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s injury will be another major concern for the Bucks. The two-time MVP suffered a left soleus strain on Tuesday in the win against the Celtics. The team from Wisconsin has one whole week to prepare for Game 1 against the Pacers. The Bucks have lost 8 of their last 11 games. They have thus relinquished the second seed to a resurgent Knicks side. Luckily, they’ve got one whole week to rest and recoup before their matchup against the sixth-seed Pacers.
Glory Rekindled or Time for Reboot?
The Bucks have a home advantage in the first round. They are also safe from The Celtics unless they qualify for the Conference Finals. Despite all this, it’s been one of the most frustrating regular seasons for The Bucks in recent memory. Now, with Giannis back and supported by Damian Lillard, they must produce a strong post-season performance. This next week will be crucial for the Bucks. They have to take themselves serious if they want to find any consistency. Will the Milwaukee Bucks fall short of the Finals once more or will Giannis and his teammates bring the Championship Trophy back to Wisconsin?
