Bucks Zone

Milwaukee Bucks drop to no. 2 in The Athletic’s Power Rankings

The Bucks dropped a peg.

Jonas Panerio

© Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
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After standing atop the Power Rankings of The Athletic last week, the Milwaukee Bucks have slid down a spot to no. 2 right behind their rivals, the Boston Celtics. However, there’s not much to be gloomy about in Milwaukee, as despite their early struggles, the Bucks still stand atop the Central Division standings with a 13-5 record.

Lillard looking like himself lately

Expectations were high in the 414 when news of Lillard’s acquisition came out in late September. However, Lillard got off to a sluggish start, which dampened the optimism. But in just over a month, Dame has come alive and is starting to show us why he was so highly sought after.

In his last seven games, Lillard has averaged 28.9 points, 8.0 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, shooting 45 percent from the field, including 39 percent from beyond the arc.

“The shot-making and on-court impact for Lillard and the Bucks isn’t what we expected so far. However, Lillard has looked a lot more like himself over the last seven games,” Zach Harper wrote for The Athletic.

Great position

The Bucks have shaken off their early-season struggles and found their footing. With Lillard now in rhythm and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo being his usual dominant self, the Bucks are showing why they were considered one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.

“Even with the slow start and Lillard missing a couple games, the Bucks are still in a great position with the standings. We’ve actually seen the Bucks as a slightly losing team (-0.4 net rating) with Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo on the court together so far. But winning through the growing stages is a good sign overall,” Harper continued.

Milwaukee Bucks still flourishing despite the growing pains

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO