3 Eastern Conference first-round matchups we need in the NBA Playoffs
By Dalton Sell
Eastern Conference NBA Playoffs matchup — Milwaukee Bucks versus Miami Heat
The Miami Heat surprised everyone last season when they steamrolled through the Eastern Conference all the way to the NBA Finals. Their path included taking down the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in five games during their second-round matchup, which was certainly considered a major upset by many.
Both teams are now gearing up for another postseason run, and they could be on a collision course to meet yet again, this time in the first round.
Following their defeat against Miami, the Bucks have undergone a severe roster reconstruction over the past several months that has included bringing in household names like Jrue Holiday, P.J. Tucker, and Bobby Portis, among others. Such a massive turnover in their roster has translated to an inconsistent season for the Bucks, as they currently occupy the third seed in the conference with a 38-23 overall record.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo, Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and a revamped supporting cast, the Bucks are positioned to make another deep playoff push. Although they have fallen short in the playoffs over the past two seasons despite boasting the league’s best record, this is undoubtedly their best-constructed roster during that span, and they are ready to make a run at the Finals.
Meanwhile, the Heat have taken a significant step backward this season, currently sitting at seventh in the East standings with a 32-30 record. Hindered by COVID-19 protocols and injuries throughout the season, the Heat have not been able to find much stability. This is highlighted by the team’s midseason acquisition of Victor Oladipo, who has only played four games with the team since coming over at the trade deadline.
Health permitted, a postseason matchup between these two teams would be must-see television. Milwaukee would have a massive chip on their shoulder stemming from last season’s defeat, while Miami would once again take on the underdog mindset that saw them represent the East in the NBA Finals last season.
These star-studded rosters going head to head would be a thrilling seven-game set, and it remains a genuine possibility that they could end up meeting, given how the standings shake out.