Bucks a real threat? And the stats say keep shooting 3s

NBA: Boston Celtics at Milwaukee Bucks

Nov 10, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) takes a shot against Milwaukee Bucks guard AJ Green (20) in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

Benny Sieu/Benny Sieu-Imagn Images

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Milwaukee Bucks: A Waning Threat?

As a long-time observer of the Boston Celtics, I’ve been pondering whether the Milwaukee Bucks still pose a significant threat to our team. The recent matchups have shown that the Bucks, despite their star power, might not be the formidable opponents they once were. With key players like Kristaps Porzingis out, the Celtics still managed to hold their ground. The Bucks, on the other hand, seem to be struggling with their current roster dynamics.

The addition of Damian Lillard to the Bucks was supposed to be a game-changer, but it appears to have created more defensive vulnerabilities than solutions. The Celtics have been exploiting these weaknesses, particularly by relentlessly targeting Lillard. This strategy has been effective, as the Bucks have yet to find a reliable counter. Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a powerhouse but even he can’t single-handedly carry the team through these challenges.

Unless Khris Middleton somehow returns at peak level, the Bucks might be cooked.

Celtics’ Three-Point Strategy

The Celtics’ approach to three-point shooting has been a hot topic. We’re leading the league in three-point attempts, and while our shooting percentage isn’t the highest, the sheer volume of shots is making a significant impact. Joe Mazzulla’s philosophy is clear: keep taking those open shots. The stats back this up, with over 83% of our three-point attempts being open or wide open. This strategy is paying off, as it allows us to outscore opponents even when they have a higher shooting percentage.

It’s fascinating to see how the Celtics’ offense is structured around creating these open opportunities. The ball movement and player positioning are key, and it’s something that fans should appreciate. The team isn’t just jacking up threes; they’re taking smart, calculated shots that maximize their scoring potential.

For more insights and a deeper dive into the Celtics’ strategies and their rivalry with the Bucks, tune into the Locked On Celtics podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Celtics Podcast:

- Jayson Tatum’s potential absence against the Atlanta Hawks and its implications.

- A look at the Celtics’ upcoming games and what to expect from their performance.

- Discussion on the NBA’s in-season tournament and its significance for the Celtics.

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