NBA - Bucks clearly top of the class in the East
By Taha Qureshi
PhilBoxing.com
Mon, 09 Dec 2019
MILWAUKEE -- With slightly over one-fourth of the 2019-20 NBA already in the history books, the Milwaukee Bucks have made a strong case as the team to beat in the Eastern Conference.
Though tied with the equally-mighty Los Angeles Lakers for the best overall record, the Bucks' 20-3 won-lost mark record is a full three games better than the 16-5 Boston Celtics who are at second place while the resurgent 16-6 Miami Heat are in third place.
Winners of 13 straight, the Bucks got their stiffest challenge yet when the L.A. Clippers came to the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milmaukee armed with dangerous intentions.
Led by All-Stars Paul George and Kawhi Leonard, who broke Bucks fans hearts last season by leading the Toronto Raptors past Milwaukee in the 2018 Eastern Conference Finals, the Clippers had a robust record of 16-6 and were on a two-game winning streak coming in, having beaten the Washington Wizards and the Portland Trail Blazers by an average of 22.5 points.
With their streak on the line, the Bucks handled what the Clippers brought to the floor, jumping to a quick 30-15 first quarter start before effectively putting the contest away with a 35-19 third quarter run.
And here's why the Bucks are legitimate title contenders.
They are No.1 in the NBA in points scored per game at 121 per and their defensive rating on 101.6 is also the best in the league.
"I believe in myself more. I think my teammates believe in me even more," the Greek Freak told reporters post-game after their early success.
He also reiterated the desire to improve on his already impressive arsenal.
"Obviously, yes, I'm a little more confident with my jump shot."
It was like telling the rest of the NBA --- "Watch out."
Reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounpo is the undisputed leader of this band, averaging 30.8 points, 13.1 rebounds and 5.4 assists in 23 outings.
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Taha Qureshi.
Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:
GM Joey is aiming for a world title shot
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 19 Oct 2025Patrick Bonifacio rules Directors Chess Cup
By Marlon Bernardino, Sun, 19 Oct 2025World Boxing Announces Elite Division World Rankings
Sun, 19 Oct 2025BEN WHITTAKER PRESS CONFERENCE: EVERYTHING THAT WAS SAID AS NEW MATCHROOM SIGNING MEETS GAVAZI – PLUS: VUONG vs GWYNNE II
Sun, 19 Oct 2025BIADO, YAPP, AND DUONG POWER TEAM ASIA TO THE BRINK OF GLORY
Sat, 18 Oct 2025Prado, Catubig dominate DTI Run
By Lito delos Reyes, Sat, 18 Oct 2025YORK HALL FIGHT NIGHT RESULTS: GEORGE LIDDARD MAKES HISTORY TO BECOME THE YOUNGEST EVER BRITISH MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPION
Sat, 18 Oct 2025Usyk in Bare Knuckle event?
By Gabriel F. Cordero, Sat, 18 Oct 2025IIEE Singapore tops National Chess Olympiad, Quezon City Simba's Tribe wins 2 matches in PCAP
By Marlon Bernardino, Sat, 18 Oct 2025Liddard Destroys Conway to Claim British Middleweight Title, Becomes Youngest-Ever Champion
By Dong Secuya, Sat, 18 Oct 2025Keiron Conway vs George Liddard: Unbeaten Prospect Faces Stiff Challenge
By Chris Carlson, Sat, 18 Oct 2025Alicaba to fight for WBC Asian Continental super fly
By Lito delos Reyes, Sat, 18 Oct 2025DAY TWO: STARBOY MANAS STEALS THE SHOW AS TEAM ASIA EXTENDS PERFECT RUN
Sat, 18 Oct 2025MANNY PACQUIAO PROMOTIONS INTRODUCES CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND VICE PRESIDENT TONY COHEN
Sat, 18 Oct 2025Joseph Subia Signs with Wise Owl Boxing
Sat, 18 Oct 2025