
Originally Posted by
MUFAN2003
No doubt Atlanta is talented. Maybe more well-rounded than Brooklyn trended in the last series. I think Atlanta is similar in some ways to Phoenix last season. Ascending late in the season, especially after Nate McMillan took over. Phoenix entered the bubble out of playoff contention but went 8-0 (including a win against the Lakers) and just missed the playoff round. I don't think Atlanta has an inside presence like Phoenix has (Ayton), but good, young talent.
People tend to forget Tre Young was a 34% shooter from beyond the arc in the regular season and for his career. He has a tendency to be hot or cold. He was cold in Game 7 against Philly. The Bucks also have a 1st Team All-NBA Defensive player they can put on him with size (Holiday). I have no trepidation about the other matchups......Lopez on Capela, Giannis on Collins, Tucker on Bogdanovic, Middleton on Huerter. If Portis gets more run this series, he can matchup against Gallinari who doesn't have much off the dribble.
The Bucks had a mantra after they went up 2-0 on Miami....."Don't play with your food." They weren't going to Miami looking for a split. Several guys have had disappointing exits deep in the playoffs; Giannis, Middleton and Lopez 2 years ago when they were up 2-0 on Toronto in the ECF (along with Miami last season). PJ Tucker in Houston when they were up 3-2 on Golden State in the WCF. Missed opportunities like that make you appreciate the moment and not take it for granted.