Giannis and the Bucks confident of Eastern Conference Win
After winning last year’s NBA championship, the Milwaukee Bucks Will be hoping they can repeat the feat this year after a strong start to the season. The team, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, won last seasons playoff final against Phoenix Suns after winning the eastern conference playoffs, seeing off Miami Heat, Brooklyn Nets and Atlanta Hawks on their way to the finals. While many believe the lack of a sufficient challenge from big western conference teams like the Lakers, the Clippers and the Warriors contributed to the Bucks win, but the Milwaukee team deserved their win and will be confident they can do it again.
The Bucks have been in fine form so far this season, which is reflected in NBA odds provided by oddschecker, which have only the heavily stacked Brooklyn Nets ahead of the Milwaukee team. Although this is far from the strongest the Eastern Conference has been in recent years, Mike Budenholzer’s team face stern competition in Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and the Chicago Bulls, who, like the Nets, will all feel like they have a chance in to reach the NBA finals. They have already beaten a strong Knicks team, Miami Heat and the Cavaliers, as well as recently ending the Houston Rockets 7 game winning streak with Giannis recording 41 points, 17 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 blocks.
Key players
This kind of form from their star player is one of the main reasons for the Bucks confidence this season, the “Greek Freak”, who’s story is soon to be the subject of a Disney film, has continued his dominance from last season that saw him named Most Valuable Player in the finals. The Rockets game was the second time he has reached 40 points this season, coming after his performance earlier in December, when he scored 27 points on his 27th birthday to help the Bucks beat the Cavaliers. Such numbers show that he is performing well at both ends of the court, an ominous sign for his rivals. He is also shooting well from the free throw line, scoring 6 from 7 attempts and having just turned 27, many will feel like he is only just approaching his peak.
Alongside Giannis, Khris Middleton is also performing extremely well. The small forward recoded 21 points against the rockets, his 6th consecutive game with over 20 points. However, he has been blighted by health problems this year, and had ended the Bucks recent loss against Boston Celtics with a hyperextended knee. Fans will hope this injury doesn’t keep him out too long, and that he can continue his great form when he returns.
Main Eastern Conference Rivals
The Brooklyn Nets are the team many believe will provide the sternest challenge to the Bucks bid to win the Eastern conference. They have one of the most talented squads in the league, featuring Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, James Harden and Blake Griffin, which some think makes them favourites. However, there are doubts over team chemistry with so many stars in one team.
Led by Jimmy Butler, one of the leagues most popular players, Miami Heat will also be confident of reaching the Eastern Conference playoff finals. They have a strong, balanced squad with a number of different tactical options. The differing playmaking styles of point guards Tyler Herro and Kyle Lowry mean the Heat can be flexible in their approach, which makes them a dangerous opponent.
Championship Rivals
Should the Bucks succeed in winning the Eastern Conference, they will face Stern competition from the West Coast. After a few years out of form, Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors look strong again, with the point guard recapturing his scoring touch of previous successful seasons. Lebron James and the Lakers look out of sorts at the moment, but with the likes of Russell Westbrook, Anthony Davis, Carmelo Anthony and Dwight Howard alongside him, it’s hard to believe they won’t find form in time for the playoffs. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, two players who have proven their ability to come up clutch for their team, will also fancy their chances.
