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"To have the best record, it is something that matters and is important" - Mike Budenholzer reacts to the Milwaukee Bucks securing the top seed in the NBA
The Milwaukee Bucks have been incredibly consistent this season, and after 80 games, they have finally clinched the top seed in the East.
The Bucks sealed the feat that comes with a crucial home-court edge throughout the playoffs when they drubbed the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday night, 105-92.
The win stretched Milwaukee's NBA-best record to 58-22, securing the top seed regardless of the outcome of their final two regular-season games.
Picture of consistency
Rightfully so, the Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer gave the Bucks a "ton of credit" for the achievement, which he said is never easy to accomplish.
"Night in and night out in this league, it's hard," Budenholzer said.
Emerging with the best record after the regular season is a testament to the team's consistency, Budenholzer said.
"To have the best record, it is something that matters and is important. But being our best day each night is what we talk about the most," he said.
Great achievement
The Bucks had to deal with injuries to their superstars, such as Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton.
Those two Milwaukee stars had to sit out several games due to injuries, but the Bucks kept finding ways to win.
That's why for Brook Lopez, emerging as the top seed, even if injuries hounded the team is extra special.
"It's definitely a great achievement," Lopez said. "It's cool because we've had a lot of different lineups throughout the year, and regardless of who we've put out on the floor, our guys have come out with the right mindset and have been going out there to succeed."
Finally, securing the top seed felt like the Bucks got the monkey off their backs, and with the two remaining games practically becoming no-bearing matches already, they will have the luxury to give their key players some rest as they gear up for the playoff grind.
Giannis Antetokounmpo rested a sore knee against Chicago, while Grayson Allen was also absent due to a sprained ankle. Khris Middleton left in the second quarter due to a sore right knee.
"Now we get to take a breath. I have no idea what we're going to do Friday and Sunday. The guys have earned it. Ton of credit to the guys for what they've done since the all-star break to put themselves in this position," said Budenholzer.
