Milwaukee Bucks: 4 reasons not to worry about two-game skid

MIAMI, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 29: Jrue Holiday #21 and Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks talk during a free throw against the Miami Heat during the third quarter at American Airlines Arena on December 29, 2020 in Miami, Florida. 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 Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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The Eastern Conference is wide open

If the NBA season ended today, the Philadelphia 76ers would have homecourt throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. While Joel Embiid is having an MVP caliber season, Philadelphia’s lead over Milwaukee is not significant. If hanging onto homecourt advantage is a priority for Doc Rivers’ bunch, he’s going to have to light a fire under them to keep their lead.

Since acquiring James Harden in a blockbuster trade, the Brooklyn Nets have the worst defense in the history of the NBA. That’s not hyperbole. The Nets’ defense has actually been the worst the league has ever seen by a variety of metrics. While this may not still be the case by the end of the season, the fact is Brooklyn is vulnerable. Sure their Big Three of Harden Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving has historic offensive firepower, but no team can make the Finals without playing both sides of the ball.

The Bucks’ Big 3 of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday fit together better than any other trio of stars in the league. Mike Budenholzer has proven to be one of the best coaches in the league. Even after a two-game losing streak, the Bucks are right where they want to be: near the top of the conference with a chance to take the number one spot with a late-season push.

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