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The 2019-2020 NBA season starts October 22nd, and to get you ready for tip-off, Off the Glass is previewing all 30 teams. Today we look at the Milwaukee Bucks.
2017-2018 Record: 60-22, 1st in the Central Division. Lost 2-4 to the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference Final.
Season Recap: On the back of Giannis Antetokounmpo continuing his dazzling ascent up the NBA's pecking order, Milwaukee had a fantastic year. Mike Budenholzer’s first stint with this Buck’s team proved that he is still one of the best coaches in the league. Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez and Eric Bledsoe all proved to be great role players, proving Giannis doesn’t need another big-name star next to him. Although the loss in the playoffs to Toronto was tragic, the year overall felt like a great success.
Key Losses: Malcolm Brogdon (G), Nikola Mirotic (F)
Key Additions: Wesley Matthews (G), Robin Lopez (C)
Preview: This is a do or die season for Antetokounmpo. Following his first MVP award, its time to prove he can get to the NBA Finals. Giannis led his team to within two games last season, but wasn’t able to overcome Toronto’s length and tough defense. The losses of Brodgon and Mirotic can potentially be overcome. If Antetokounmpo continues to develop his three-point shot, and Wesley Matthews proves to be a knock down shooter, the Bucks will most likely find themselves in the same position they were in last year. They’ll just have to close the deal this time.
Player to Watch: Wesley Matthews, SG
Team X-Factor: Giannis’ three-point percentage
Worst Case Scenario: The Bucks take a step back and don’t make it back to the Eastern Conference Finals. If that happens, expect to hear rumors of the Greek Freak rethinking his loyalty to Milwaukee.
Best Case Scenario: Winning the championship. With an MVP candidate and a solid supporting cast, this is certainly within the realm of possibility.
Actual 2019-2020 Prediction: 58-24, 1st in Central Division.