Top 5 duos in the NBA during 2018-19 season
By Nick Crain
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton (Milwaukee Bucks)
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton both found themselves in the NBA All-Star Game this season. At first glance, most people would say Middleton is having a disappointing season relative to last year. In reality, he is doing exactly what he needs to be doing.
Giannis is playing at an elite, MVP level this season. The only weakness to his game is his shooting. Middleton has improved his 3-point percentage from last season from 35.9 percent to 37.8 percent.
Although Giannis is the clear alpha in this duo, Middleton does exactly what Giannis needs him to in order for both of them to be as efficient as possible. Middleton spaces the floor, which allows Giannis to get to the paint, where he thrives. In turn, defenses have to collapse, leaving Middleton open for 3-pointers.
Antetokounmpo and Middleton are both in the top 20 in the league when it comes to defensive win shares, at first and 17th respectively. This has allowed Milwaukee to rank first in the league in defensive rating, boasting a 97.8 rating. Giannis is also seventh in points per game, sixth in rebounds per game and 17th in assists per game.