Milwaukee Bucks: Predictions for New Schedule
With the NBA releasing the new eight-game schedule, here are three predictions for the Milwaukee Bucks’ and what lies ahead.
As the calendar turns to July, the Milwaukee Bucks are now less than a month away from returning to their championship pursuit. At 53-13, they hold the league’s best record despite riding a current three-game losing streak.
The NBA has a plan in place for the league’s return, yet, they have plenty of details to figure out. Teams are beginning their transition to the bubble in Florida and a potential three-month stay. For the Bucks, it’s simply a necessary business trip, as they have unfinished business from earlier this season.
The most dominant team for two seasons running, Milwaukee hopes to make their title aspirations a reality and prove to Giannis Antetokounmpo he can stay with the franchise long-term. First things first, however. Here are three predictions for the upcoming eight-game regular season.
All About the Postseason
Considering the Bucks have a 6.5 game lead over the second-place Toronto Raptors, they all but have the top seed in the Eastern Conference locked up. That means head coach Mike Budenholzer can focus on getting his squad ready for the postseason.
He already limited their playing time before the break, as no starter averaged more than 31 minutes per game. He’ll be even more focused on preparing his guys for the postseason, as he only has eight games and a couple of weeks to do so. Setting the score aside, the primary focus will be on getting his guys into shape for a deep playoff run.
Khris Middleton Makes History
As it stands, Khris Middleton is one made shot away from joining the historic 50-40-90 club. He would be the second Buck in as many seasons to do so. However, there are only four others who have done so while averaging at least 20 points a game–Middleton would be the fifth.
Sitting at 49.9 percent field goal percentage, he will have every opportunity to get over the 50 percent mark. His three-point percentage (41.8) and free throw percentage (90.8) should hold up over the eight-game schedule.
Record Prediction
With the league only bringing the top 22 teams back, everyone’s schedule is on steroids. This will make it more difficult for everyone to come by wins. Still, Milwaukee is one of the deepest teams in the NBA and even with their focus being on getting their players ready, they should be able to win more than they lose. Talent wins in the end and that will help the Bucks to a 5-3 record in their eight-game return.