The Milwaukee Bucks bounced back in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, earning a commanding 123-102 victory to tie the series up at one game apiece.
After struggling in Game 1 (22 points on 7-of-21 shooting), Giannis Antetokounmpo quickly reminded everyone why he's an MVP front-runner for a reason. The Greek Freak finished with 29 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, and two steals.
Antetokounmpo was once again the dominant force he has been for the Bucks all season. Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer talked about the difference between Games 1 and 2, though he admitted he didn't think his star was that bad in Game 1, per The Athletic's Joe Vardon:
“I don’t think he was that bad the other day. Was he better? He certainly was better. I think finding his teammates — I think we shot it better. Making shots is such a huge part of the playoffs, and he had guys step up and make them, which opens the court for him. We’ve got to continue to make shots around him; he’s got to continue to make great decisions.”
Bucks forward Khris Middleton added that Giannis just needs to be consistently aggressive, but noted that in order for the Bucks star to do his best, they will need to do their part as Antetokounmpo's supporting cast:
“It works hand in hand. He’s at his best when he’s playing aggressive, getting downhill, and getting into the paint, puts pressure on the defense. And in order for us to loosen it up for him, we have to be willing to take and make shots, 3s.”
Game 3 will be played in Boston this Friday, and although the Celtics now have the home-court advantage, a rejuvenated Giannis will surely give them problems on both ends of the floor. The Greek Freak seems to have moved on from his struggles in the series opener, and he will look to help Milwaukee regain control of the series.
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