In an extremely high-anticipated matchup, the Brooklyn Nets and Milwaukee Bucks kick off their second-round series on Saturday. Brooklyn previously took down the Celtics in five games, while the Bucks soared past the Heat with a four-game sweep.
These are two of the most dangerous teams in the East, let alone the entire NBA. Giannis Antetokounmpo is looking to finally lead Milwaukee to the promised land, while the star-studded Nets are a heavy favorite to win it all. However, this series is going to be no cakewalk for either club.
Here are three predictions for the Nets and Bucks.
Antetokounmpo torches the Nets
There aren't many players in the Association who can guard Giannis Antetokounmpo. His unique combination of size, strength, and athleticism is a nightmare for any opposition. The Greek Freak had his way with Miami in round one, averaging 23.5 points, 15 rebounds, and 7.8 assists per game.
The Nets honestly don't have anyone who can even slightly contain Antetokounmpo. DeAndre Jordan is the closest thing and even he won't be able to slow down the utter dominance of Milwaukee's star big man. We all know that Brooklyn is nothing to write home about defensively as well. But, with a three-headed monster on the opposite end, the Nets are scary.
During the regular season, the Bucks barely played against Steve Nash's team with all of their stars on the floor. While they're going to throw everything imaginable at the Greek Freak, he won't have any problems bullying his way to the hoop and scoring at a high level. Good luck Brooklyn. Giannis is going to run riot.
Harden proves to be X-factor for Brooklyn
We're currently looking at one of the best trios the NBA has ever seen in Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and James Harden. While KD and Kyrie are extremely important to the Nets' production offensively, Harden makes everything tick.
He controls the tempo of the game perfectly and has become a selfless player since arriving in Brooklyn. The Beard makes all of his teammates better, especially the role players on the Nets like Nicolas Claxton, Landry Shamet, Bruce Brown, and Joe Harris. Harden's high IQ for the game allows him to manipulate the floor and wreak havoc on opposing defenses thanks to his ability to not only score but facilitate the rock and get everyone involved.
While the Bucks do have a top-five defense, they're going to have a fit trying to limit Harden's offensive contributions. He will be the key to the Big 3 finding their best in this second-round matchup.
Bucks shock Nets in 7
This series is going to go the distance. There is no doubt in my mind. While many people are picking Brooklyn, the Bucks have the potential to advance. They say defense wins championships and the Nets haven't shown much promise on that end of the floor.
While Milwaukee will have a tough time containing the Big 3, Giannis and Khris Middleton will spearhead the offense and lead their team to the Conference finals. The Bucks have so much versatility defensively and they're going to do just enough to stop the Nets. The lack of chemistry in Brooklyn between their superstar trio will prove costly.
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