On paper, the Milwaukee Bucks duo of Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo should be unstoppable in the NBA. For that to happen, though, the pair must do something throughout the 2024-25 season.
As the Bucks approach the new season, they find themselves at a crossroads, transitioning from perceived championship contenders to potential pretenders. Recent playoff exits—first against the Miami Heat and then the Indiana Pacers—have raised doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level. Key injuries, particularly to Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, have hampered their performance, while concerns grow over the durability of their aging roster, including Lillard.
Despite these challenges, there remains hope. The pairing of Antetokounmpo and Lillard could unlock a dynamic offensive synergy, especially as they enter their second season together. Head coach Doc Rivers must optimize their talents while addressing defensive gaps, particularly on the perimeter.
Although the Bucks added players like Delon Wright and Taurean Prince for defensive support, questions linger about their ability to match up against top Eastern Conference teams like the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard Need To Stay Healthy for Milwaukee Bucks to Succeed in 2024-25
Much like everyone on the Bucks’ roster, both superstars will have to do something important if they want the team to become serious contenders. According to Behind the Buck Pass’ Dalton Sell, the pair will have to stay healthy.
“Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared in 73 regular season games but was sidelined for the entire playoffs due to a freak soleus strain. Lillard played 74 regular season games but got injured in the playoffs, having missed two games, which undoubtedly hurt.
To win it all, the Milwaukee Bucks need all of these players to be healthy. If any of them go down, it will spell trouble for their goals. Whether Doc Rivers cuts back on their minutes or gives them a game off here and there, the Bucks and this trio must try their best to stay as healthy as possible. Of course, it is hard to avoid freakish injuries, so that is always a looming possibility,” Sell wrote.
The Bucks are facing skepticism about their championship potential as they head into the new season. Despite having star players like Antetokounmpo and Lillard, doubts linger due to recent playoff struggles and injury concerns. To reclaim their status as contenders, the team must overcome these challenges and demonstrate their capabilities on the court.
This season represents a critical test for the Bucks as they strive to prove doubters wrong. Whether they can adapt and thrive under scrutiny will ultimately determine if they can reclaim their status as serious contenders or if the skepticism surrounding them is justified, especially if Lillard and Antetokounmpo can’t stay healthy.
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