NBA PLAYOFFS 2021

Bucks VS Hawks

Eastern Conference Finals

Game 1: June 23rd

I can’t lie I really did not expect either of these teams to be here. They both had extremely tough roads to get to the ECF and it shows they are legitimate contenders despite everyone thinking they were all hype. I believe the Bucks possess the talent, coaching, experience, and determination to win the Finals this year. All that stands in their way to get there is the Hawks who have shocked everyone as the underdogs in both rounds 1 and 2, knocking off a higher seeded Knicks team and the Eastern Conference’s leader in the 76ers. However, I think the Bucks will put a stop to their incredible playoff run because they match up too well with them. Jrue Holiday is a great defender and can keep up with Trae Young’s speed. On the other end, no-one can guard Giannis or Middleton on the Hawks so I think they will easily find their shots. They also have home court advantage where they are historically difficult to beat. I like the Bucks in 4 or 5 in this series. For tonight’s game, take the Bucks -8, Trae Young under 28.5 points, and Jrue Holiday under 18.5 points.

Game 4: June 29th

Start Time: 8:30 pm EST

Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta

Where to Watch: TNT

The Bucks aren’t losing another game this series. They are too good for the Hawks and matchup very well against them. Last game was tight but clearly the Bucks have more talent while the Hawks rely on Trae Young too much. I like the Bucks by a million tonight. Take the Bucks -6.5 and Khris Middleton over 23.5 points.

Game 5: July 1st

Start Time: 8:30 pm EST

Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee

Where to Watch: TNT

It’s pretty damn unfortunate how the playoffs have unfolded this year. Virtually every team has experienced injuries to their best player(s) during critical parts of a series. In both conference finals it has happened, with Kawhi out and now Giannis, so we may end up with a Hawks vs Suns Finals which would be blasphemous - I may not even watch. However, I think Milwaukee may match up better against Atlanta without Giannis where their guards get an opportunity to get hot like Holiday and Middleton, without having to set up Giannis. Another factor is the injury to Trae young, and the fact that the Bucks get home court. I think they surprise people and get a win tonight. Take the Bucks -3, Jrue Holiday over 23.5 points, and P.J. Tucker over 5.5 points.