Even with a healthy duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard coached by Doc Rivers, the Milwaukee Bucks are still not favorites to win the Eastern Conference. This can be seen in an NBA poll conducted by ESPN ahead of the 2024-25 season.
In a recent interview, Bucks General Manager Jon Horst discussed the team’s quiet offseason following a disappointing playoff exit. After trading for All-Star Damian Lillard before the 2023-24 season, the Bucks faced challenges, particularly with injuries sidelining two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite the setbacks, Horst remains optimistic about the upcoming season.
This offseason, the Bucks focused on strengthening their roster with minimal contracts. They secured three key free agents: Gary Trent Jr., Delon Wright, and Taurean Prince. Horst highlighted Trent’s potential as a starting two-guard and his ability to complement the team’s core, which includes Lillard and Antetokounmpo. Wright’s versatility as a defensive-minded player adds depth, while Prince brings experience and shooting capability.
Horst reiterated confidence in the team’s direction, emphasizing the importance of health and luck in achieving success. He also addressed rumors surrounding veteran center Brook Lopez, affirming the team’s commitment to keeping him.
Looking ahead, Horst is excited about the coaching staff assembled by Doc Rivers, noting their extensive experience and ability to adapt strategies. As the Bucks prepare for the upcoming season, Horst believes they remain competitive within the Eastern Conference, aiming to reclaim their status as a championship contender.
ESPN Poll Favors Boston Celtics Over Milwaukee Bucks To Win East in 2024-25
As it stands, Milwaukee isn’t a clear favorite to dominate its own conference. This can be seen in an article written by Tim Bontemps for ESPN.
“EAST
Boston Celtics: 13
Milwaukee Bucks: 2
New York Knicks: 2
Philadelphia 76ers: 1Two clear favorites emerged, with the Celtics and Thunder — last season’s top two playoff seeds — getting more than 70% of the vote with a flurry of contenders following. Most notably among the second tier was the Bucks, who were tabbed as the biggest threat to dethrone the Celtics.
“I think they’ll have stability in Year 2 under Doc [Rivers],” a West scout said. “They’ll have a full year together. And Giannis is still Giannis,” Bontemps wrote.
During the 2023–24 season, the Bucks experienced significant changes, including the firing of head coach Adrian Griffin mid-season despite a strong record. They acquired Lillard in a major trade, but faced playoff struggles, ultimately being eliminated in the first round by the Indiana Pacers, marking a disappointing end to a promising season.
While all eyes are on the Celtics next season, the Bucks have a chance to surprise everyone and be better than they were during the previous campaign. If they succeed, more eyes will be on the team as they try to win another ring next year.
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