Milwaukee Bucks: The Eastern Conference Champions Bound for the 2019 NBA Finals?
It’s no secret that I had the Milwaukee Bucks advancing to the NBA Finals well before the playoffs kicked off. I believed they could beat the Nets to face the Celtics, which ultimately led to their potential NBA Finals matchup. Though, even with the Nets winning, the Bucks still have a case for making the Finals. In Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, the Bucks showed a strong performance against the Hawks, despite a 7-game victory for the Suns over the Bucks.
The Hawks and Sixers Stand in Their Way
The Bucks are currently favored to defeat the Hawks in the Eastern Conference Finals, just as the 76ers were previously favored. However, unless Giannis Antetokounmpo is given primary defensive duties to guard Trae Young, the Hawks should not be underestimated. The Suns and Clippers both have a significant chance to make it to the Finals, yet the Bucks remain the best odds at this stage of the playoffs. Nevertheless, unless Giannis is properly guarded, the Hawks can certainly be a formidable opponent.
The Current State of Milwaukee's Team
The Bucks' team is undoubtedly strong for the regular season but struggles in close playoff games. This inconsistency might not be enough to secure a championship, which is why I am confident in their chances. Giannis Antetokounmpo renews his MVP candidacy, while Khris Middleton is averaging 19 points per game with a shooting percentage of 48 from the field and 39 from beyond the arc. Miles Bledsoe is putting up 15 points along with 5 assists, although Brook Lopez’s shooting percentages from the field and from 3-point range have not met previous standards, hurting their chance to compete.
Will the Bucks Triumph in the 2019 NBA Finals?
Considering the state of their offense, I still believe the Bucks can win it all. The Sixers, whom I consider more pretenders than contenders, will likely be swept in the Eastern Conference Finals. Toronto’s defense against superstar and MVP candidate Joel Embiid and Giannis can be challenging, but I see the Bucks advancing to the NBA Finals and defeating the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals. My suggestion is to overlook the Lakers, as they have a better chance against the Clippers without Kawhi Leonard.
The Bucks' Path to Glory and the Golden State Warriors
The Milwaukee Bucks’ current lineup has proven to be immensely dangerous, but they must adapt to the physicality of the NBA Finals. Giannis is a true MVP candidate, and Khris Middleton and Bledsoe are providing immense support. Brook Lopez must step up in his shooting to complement the team's offense. George Hill is providing strong contributions, especially from beyond the arc where he has been 41% from 3-point range. If the Bucks can hit on all cylinders, I confidently say they will be the ones going to the NBA Finals, facing off against the Golden State Warriors. Let's see how the Bucks and the Warriors compete in the last three series of the season!
Conclusion
As the 2019 playoffs continue, the Milwaukee Bucks have demonstrated the potential to secure the Eastern Conference title and advance to the NBA Finals. Despite their strong performance all season, it's crucial to keep a few factors in mind, including Giannis' health, their opponents' strategies, and the unpredictable nature of close games in the postseason. The Bucks have the talent to make a deep run, and I am optimistic about their future. Let's stay tuned for what this basketball season has in store for us!