NBA Power Rankings Week 3: Are the Golden State Warriors back?

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 04: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is congratulated by teammates after he made a three-point basket against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center on January 04, 2021 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

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89. . 6-4. Previous: 5th. Milwaukee Bucks. 2. team

Last Week: Beat Detroit Pistons 125-115, Beat Detroit Pistons 130-115, Lost to Utah Jazz 131-118, Beat Cleveland Cavaliers 100-90

This Week: 1/11 at Orlando Magic, 1/13 at Detroit Pistons, 1/15 vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Milwaukee Bucks are not the same level of dominant they have been over the last two years so far but that does not mean they have not been impressive. Giannis Antetokounmpo appeared in only three games this week and averaged 34.3 points, 8.3 rebounds and 4.0 assists per game while shooting 60.9 percent from the field. He is redefining video game numbers, let alone what is expected of an MVP.

The Bucks were without Antetokounmpo against the Cleveland Cavaliers and continued to thrive anyway. Khris Middleton had 27 points on 16 shots and four other Bucks scored in double figures. Milwaukee is integrating its new pieces even better than expected.

Jrue Holiday averaged 14.3 points, 5.5 assists, 5.3 rebounds and 2.3 steals per game this week. Bryn Forbes has fit seamlessly with Antetokounmpo so far. Bobby Portis was first on the team in rebounds this week and is scoring in double figures. Even rookie Jordan Nwora is impressive.

Do not get confused by the lesser record. The Bucks are better than they were a year ago and the players are starting to mesh together. Once they do, it will be clear on the floor. It is only a matter of when not if.