By Zach Stremer
Gone are the days of shouting “Bucks in six!” as the Milwaukee Bucks are officially out of the playoffs. The results of the first-round series came as a shock to Bucks’ fans, as the return of Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo gave them a false assurance that the team would continue their set against the Miami Heat. Many fans and commentators were left unfulfilled, as Giannis’ return was supposed to pull Milwaukee out of their losing streak. Moreover, the Bucks were the number-one ranked team in the NBA leading up to the playoffs. What happened? It’s unclear, but fans and commentators alike have worked to fit the puzzle pieces together in a way to string a narrative as to what went down Wednesday night.
Giannis’ return showed some rough patches. On free throws alone, the player missed more than half of his free throws. Free throws have been an issue in the past for Giannis, but he had been improving. Giannis might not be entirely at fault, however, as Greyson Allen was unable to break the game-winning tie in overtime.
Furthermore, the Bucks’ competition was nothing to scoff at. Heat star Jimmy Butler scored fifty-six points in game four of the series, making him more than just a formidable opponent for Milwaukee. Another telltale sign, the Bucks blew a double-digit lead in the fourth quarter of both games four and five leading up to game six. Milwaukee’s choke is historic, as there’s only been six teams at the eighth seed that advanced through the first round of the playoffs.
What does this mean for Milwaukee? Not much, hope for better next year at most. The direct implications of the playoffs are likely going to be reflected in next season’s roster, who stays in Milwaukee, and who leaves the Midwest.
Zach Stremer is a senior at UW Oshkosh majoring in Radio TV Film.
