Milwaukee Bucks: The Lowdown on The Central Division
By Adam Coffman
Cleveland Cavaliers
2015-2016 Record: 57-25, 1st seed in playoffs
Key Losses: Matthew Dellavedova, Timofey Mosgov
Key Additions: Mike Dunleavy, Chris Anderson
If it can’t already be derived from the short section above, the Cavaliers had a relatively quiet offseason, and appear to largely be bringing back the same roster that just won them an NBA title in spectacular fashion. None of the Cavs offseason moves can really be classified as “key”, save for the important, though presumably inevitable re-signing of LeBron James.
In addition, even though trade winds and rumors may continue to surround power forward Kevin Love, it is unlikely that a deal is made, considering Love still has much to bring to the table if used correctly.
Obviously, this is not good news for the Bucks or the rest of the Eastern Conference; LeBron’s team has made the Finals six straight years and his dominance shows no sign of slowing. Aside from the Golden State Warrior superteam, the Cavs have to be expected to be the best team in the Association, and a tier above the rest of the league.
Because of this, a division title should be seen as nothing but a pipe dream for Bucks fans, although luckily, winning one’s division has decreased significantly in importance thanks to a 2015 rule change which mandates that the top eight teams in each conference make the postseason and are seeded regardless of divisional finish.
As far as how the Bucks match up against the Cavs, it’s not surprising to hear that Giannis and company went only 1-3 against Cleveland last year. The Cavs run an offense predicated on floor spacing, often putting four shooters on the floor to allow LeBron room to work, and even if the Bucks’ defensive three-point woes are resolved, they, like nearly every other team, just don’t have someone who can go toe-to-toe with James in the clutch.
For what it’s worth, Giannis Antetokounmpo does certainly seem to relish the opportunity to go up against one of the league’s premier players, as he posted an average of 23.8 points per game against the Cavs last year, his second highest average against any team.
Except for a potential 1-vs-8 playoff matchup, the goings-on in Cleveland shouldn’t be the cause of too much worry for Bucks fans, as Milwaukee is simply not on the same level as the Cavaliers.
Next: Detroit Pistons