Milwaukee Bucks Season Comes to an End
If you are a Milwaukee Bucks fan, I am so sorry. In a season that was supposed to be one of the best ones in a while for the organization with the recent addition of Damian Lillard, from beginning to end, nothing seemed to go the way it was supposed to. While many originally blamed coaching problems as we all know the Bucks had two different coaches this season, now will begin the offseason questions that start with: What is the problem? Obviously, injuries have been a huge problem for this Milwaukee team, but even getting past that, the Bucks have no depth. All of their scoring comes from Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, Bobby Portis, and Brook Lopez. The only other player who the Bucks could count on this year to give them somewhat consistent scoring was Malik Beasley. When you think about the fact that none of these guys are getting younger at what point do they need to make moves for the future? Let’s take a look at how, after being up 3-2 heading into this game, the Pacers eliminated the Bucks on Thursday night!
This game began with both teams showing promise for this matchup, but Indiana quickly gained control, establishing an early lead and maintaining it throughout the game. Pascal Siakam led the charge for the Pacers, showcasing his versatility with 19 points, while Aaron Nesmith and Tyrese Haliburton provided valuable support with 15 and 17 points respectively. Meanwhile, the Bucks struggled to find their rhythm on both ends of the court. Despite notable performances from Lillard, who tallied an impressive 28 points, and contributions from Middleton and Lopez with 14 and 20 points respectively, the Bucks couldn’t overcome the Pacers’ relentless offense. Off the bench, Indiana got even better in this game as they found firepower in Obi Toppin and T.J. McConnell, who combined for 41 points, further extending Indiana’s lead and solidifying a Pacers win in this series.
When the buzzer sounded it was Indiana who won this one 120-98. As they head to the Eastern Conference Semifinals they will no doubt have a serious opponent on their hands as they will face Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks on Monday night. Until then the Pacers will enjoy what they have accomplished so far this season as this is the first time the organization has seen their team win a playoff series since Paul George was still on the team back in 2014. How far can Haliburton, Siakam, and Co. take Indiana this postseason?
