Milwaukee Bucks: Analyzing Khris Middleton/Jayson Tatum matchup
By Adam McGee
Conclusion
This is a matchup that has the potential to be relatively close, and if that turns out to be the case, the Boston Celtics will likely be advancing to the second round.
The Bucks will need Middleton to play up to his scoring average, if not even surpassing it in the playoffs. That doesn’t seem impossible by any means, but it’ll be efficiency that likely dictates Middleton’s success in that regard.
Tatum’s length and athleticism could certainly put Middleton in uncomfortable spots on both ends, but to expect that from a rookie — even a rookie as good as Tatum — may be a step too far.
Middleton’s experience should just give him the edge, as he’s at least experienced the variables that come into playoff play such as the atmosphere, the officiating and the quick-fire adjustments.
If Tatum can find a way to combat that advantage and become an X-factor in the series, it’d probably be the most impressive achievement of his rookie year.
Next: Milwaukee Bucks: Recent history with Boston Celtics
With all things considered, Middleton vs. Tatum is set up to make for fascinating viewing.