This could backfire, but Giannis and the Bucks are in big trouble.
Considering how early it is in the season, the Bucks (2-3) having suffered their third loss in five games may not be concerning just yet, but they have shown some weaknesses that may hurt them come to the playoffs.
Many questions are being asked of a team that finished with the NBA’s best record last season, even after Giannis Antetokounmpo committed by signing a five-year super max contract extension in free agency.
On their recent back to back trip to Miami, the Bucks started with a dominant 47 point victory and looked to have changed their fortune. The absence of star forward Jimmy Butler was a key reason for Miami’s shocking result, but the Bucks performance the following night will be unsettling for Milwaukee fans.
Again, the Heat were missing Butler, but Miami rallied home in the fourth to defeat the Bucks. Giannis played a total of 38 minutes, which is a stark difference from last season, where he averaged 30.4 minutes per game. This season, only five games in, he is averaging 31.4 minutes and 7.1 points fewer at 22.4 points.
Giannis had the luxury of resting in the fourth quarter several times last season, but with their already terrible relationship with the playoffs, this is a crucial area they must address. At this rate, do you honestly think they can compete with the Nets?
In no way is this an attack on Giannis; there must be an emphasis on this point. However, the front office has a lot of questions to answer. The biggest problem right now being, what trades can be made to give the two-time regular season MVP the support he needs to make the finals.
Previously, the Bucks have had a deep roster; this season, it seems this may be a significant dilemma. With Pat Connaughton, Bobby Portis, and D.J. Augustin, the notable players on the bench, any injury can cause issues within the team and their starting lineup.
It would be ludicrous to think Milwaukee won’t make any moves to solve this problem, and on their day, they can beat anybody. It’s the consistency that is the obstacle.
Would a trade including Khris Middleton put the Bucks over the top to compete with the likes of the Nets, Miami and Boston for the Eastern Conference finals?
The Bucks play the Bulls in Milwaukee at Midday today (AEDT), a game they should cover the -14.5 line at 1.90 with TopSport.
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