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.
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