NBA: Biggest winners of resuming season and revamped playoff format

3. Milwaukee Bucks

Yep, the Milwaukee Bucks were not playing their best basketball before the season was suspended. They posted three straight losses under Mike Budenholzer for the first time during his tenure with the team.

Despite their mini skid, though, the Bucks have a lot of things working in their favor. For starters, they have the best record in the league at 53-12.

Their 101.6 defensive rating is the best mark in the NBA. They are ranked fifth in points allowed, giving up 107.4 points per contest. On the offensive side, the Bucks lead the NBA in scoring, pumping in a whopping 118.6 points per contest. They also have the best point-differential in the association at +11.2.

The season resuming benefits this squad for multiple reasons. In 2018-19, the Bucks had the best record in the league and they appeared to be on their way to an NBA Finals appearance after taking a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals against the Toronto Raptors. Unfortunately, the Raptors won the next four to close out that series in six games.

Having said that, the Bucks would certainly like to prove that their dominant play during the regular season is not a fluke. Also, should the Bucks manage to win it all, it will more than likely bolster the team’s chances of retaining its best player in Antetokounmpo.

Taking those factors into consideration, the Bucks are as eager as any team to get things going again.