The NBA playoffs have started, and the Eastern Conference is looking dangerous. The Cleveland Cavaliers, the one seed, are looking like the favorites, but many believe that the Boston Celtics will come out of the East and win it all.
The Milwaukee Bucks struggled against the Indiana Pacers and lost in a close overtime game, ending the series 4-1. Stars from each team have emerged, especially Milwaukee’s own, Giannis Antetokounmpo. He averaged 33.8 points per game, 12.8 rebounds, and 5.3 assists. Leading all of the playoffs in scoring and rebounding.
Even with his amazing performance in the playoffs, his team lost 1-4. People are starting to question Giannis’ future.
“I think Giannis is going to move after losing in the first round three straight years, or the Bucks need to start getting players to help him. Dame was a great addition, but seems to be too little help, especially because of his injuries,” senior Cooper Smith said.
The Bucks and Pacers have had a rivalry ever since two years ago the Pacers knocked the Bucks out in the first round. Tyrese Haliburton has been voted the most overrated player in the NBA, and the Milwaukee fans made sure he knew that. The Bucks’ hopes to come back were distinguished after Tuesday’s game, but now that Damian Lillard is injured with a torn achilles, his future as a Buck is also questionable.
The Bucks will need to make some serious changes if they want to have a chance of winning in the future. Players will have to step up like Kevin Porter Jr. and Bobby Portis.
“Kevin Porter Jr. is definitely fun to watch and very explosive. He does turn over the ball a lot, but is starting to step up in key games. I also like watching Bobby Portis because of his aggression and out-of-this-world moves,” junior Thomas Hanlon said.
Looking at other teams, the Boston Celtics, led by Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum, have knocked out the Orlando Magic and are expected to play New York. The New York Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, are looking to beat the Detroit Pistons in a close series.
“I want the Knicks to win cause it’s been so long since they have had a real chance of winning. junior Peter Gietmann said.
The Eastern Conference Finals are approaching, and the East is looking competitive. Favorites include the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and the New York Knicks. But the NBA playoffs are always questionable. Each team will have to fight for every win, and it will definitely be a good, competitive end to the year.
“I think the Celtics have the best chance of making it to the finals because their players have the most playoff experience and they have really good coaching,” junior Noah Thomson said.
