Reactions: The Good
- Khris Middleton has been ridiculous lately. He’s averaging a clean 25 points over the last five games, while shooting a remarkable 59 percent, and 60.7 percent from three. My goodness. Against the Pacers, Middleton was up to his usual Johnny-come-lately offensive prowess. He curled around screens, made open threes (4-6), completed smart passes (4 assists), and looked smart and decisive in transition. Most importantly, he made a cold-blooded jumper with 1:39 remaining to give the Bucks a crucial five point lead. Middleton has been “That guy” as of late.
- Greg Monroe and Jabari Parker broke out of their slumps. Monroe was a complete monster scoring 23 points, including seventeen in the first half on 7-8 shooting. With Ian Mahinmi out there was nothing the Pacers could do to stop Monroe. Meanwhile, Jabari Parker was a force (on both ends, remarkably) scoring fourteen points on 7-10 shooting. He threw in a pair of mid-range jumpers and demonstrated, perhaps to the haters, that he belongs.
- In lieu of me drumming on with furthered analysis, and since it’s New Year’s Eve, allow me to entertain you with a plethora of highlight plays. Enjoy, and happy New Year’s!
Next: Reactions: The Bad