Milwaukee traveled to Oklahoma City and won in convincing fashion. This win moved their streak to five games and the Bucks travel home to play Atlanta on the second night of a back-to-back. Giannis was a monster against the Thunder posting 39 points in only 28 minutes of action. Outside of Nwora, the Milwaukee starters played between 28-30 minutes. This rest was much needed for many of the Bucks players. Coming into the second night of a back-to-back, I provide some keys to extend the win streak to six.
The Matchup
A year ago, Atlanta was the surprise team in the eastern conference. As a five seed, Atlanta was able to take the Bucks to six games in the Eastern Conference Finals. This year hasn’t been what Atlanta has hoped for. Currently in the 10 spot of the eastern conference, the Hawks are trying to hold off the Wizards for the final play in game.
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The Hawks have dominated the season series between these two teams. Atlanta holds a 2-0 lead on Milwaukee. In Atlanta’s wins, they are averaging 120.5 points per game and an average margin of victory of 13.5 points. The Bucks win streak will certainly be put to the test tonight.
Bucks Keys to the Game
Efficient Offense
Over the course of Milwaukee’s five game win streak, the Bucks have been extremely efficient shooting the ball. Milwaukee is shooting 49% from the field, including 41.6% from 3-point territory and 80.3% from the free throw line. Continuing this consistent shooting will always put Milwaukee in a primed situation to win each game. As you can imagine, with this type of efficiency results in high scoring games. Milwaukee is averaging 128.4 points per game during the current win streak.
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Continued Bench Production
During Milwaukee’s win streak, a bench player has managed to score double figures in three of five games. Jevon Carter and Serge Ibaka have done it twice, while Jordan Nwora has one time. Serge Ibaka managed his best game against the Suns where he posted his first double-double in a Bucks uniform. These recent signings have proved to be beneficial while Pat Connaughton is out, who was the most consistent player Milwaukee had off the bench.
Win the Turnover Battle
Over the last five games, Milwaukee is averaging 13 turnovers a game. While the Hawks play at the 21st fastest pace in the NBA, Trae Young doesn’t need more possessions. Arguably one of the most dangerous shooters, Young has proven he can bring the Hawks back from large deficits with his play making ability. Look for the Bucks to try and throw multiple looks at Young.
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Looking Ahead
After this home game, Milwaukee will look to head west on a four game road trip. The trip will start off with a visit to Golden State on Saturday. After that game, the Bucks will travel to Utah and play the Jazz followed by a game in Sacramento. The last game of the road trip will be close to home in Minneapolis against a much improved Timberwolves team. If Milwaukee can get through Atlanta with a win, who do you think snaps the win streak?
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