Bucks Eliminated From Playoffs In 7 by Celtics 112-96

The Milwaukee Bucks lost the playoff series in blowout fashion. Despite the game being within a few points at times, the Bucks could not keep the Celtics at bay. Eric Bledsoe, who was bullied by the Celtics the entire series, bounced back and scored 23 points. In the end, the Bucks just couldn’t hold on with the Celtics better scheme, play, and energy. One thing that doomed the Bucks was not good enough play from Giannis Antetokounmpo. The star player finished with 22 points and nine rebounds while grabbing 5 fouls along the way. Those five fouls were key as he had to sit for long periods of time while in foul trouble.

Bucks Eliminated From Playoffs In 7 by Celtics 112-96
In the first quarter, the Bucks were down by ten at points and it looked grim from the start of the game. After a double-digit deficit was turned into a two-point game the Celtics pulled away. This would happen after the Bucks gained a 10-15 lead then watched it vanish. That storyline would continue throughout the game as the Bucks tried to win the game. While trying to win the game the Bucks may have forgotten to play their game. All series the Boston crowd and playoff emotions have thrown the Bucks off their game at home and the same thing was evident within minutes after the game began. In the second quarter both Giannis and leading scorer at that point, Eric Bledsoe sat bench with three fouls a piece. Giannis was back to the nervous and hesitant player that he showed in game 5. The second quarter was much like the first as the Bucks had a close game but blew it and went down by 8 at the half.

In the third and fourth quarter, the game was never truly in reach. While the Bucks had a chance to take a lead early in the third quarter the attempt was swatted away by the Celtics as they ran up their lead again. The third quarter was back and forth but the lead remained at around 10 until the fourth quarter. In the fourth quarter, the Celtics lead grew to 19 at times. This was with a few minutes left and would have been imminent in the final score but Khris Middleton tried his best to stop the bleeding. Down by 19 Khris made multiple long threes and took the game into his hands. But it was not nearly enough to make a difference. While he did cut it down to 12, more shots late in the game gave the Celtics an end lead of 16 points.

Two things that Bucks fans should have noticed was the lack of bench and fastbreak scoring. The first matter is not much of a surprise as this doomed the Bucks all year. In contrast, the second is unheard of. The Bucks were coming off a 25-4 fastbreak outscoring of the Celtics last game. This game they put up 0 fast break points, which ultimately led to their demise. Don’t be surprised if you see a player and coaching change this offseason.

By: Weston Olds

Bucks Eliminated From Playoffs In 7 by Celtics 112-96