Milwaukee Bucks: 3 things to watch for in Game 3 versus Miami Heat
By Dalton Sell
Can the Milwaukee Bucks sustain momentum from 3-point territory?
The production from 3-point territory from the Bucks in these first two games could not be further apart on the spectrum.
Among the biggest stories of Game 1 was how Milwaukee lacked a pulse from behind the arc by shooting a horrendous 5-for-31 as a team. Although they escaped with the victory by thwarting Miami’s defensive efforts close to the basket, the Bucks almost certainly could not sustain another 16.1 percent shooting night from the outside.
The Bucks answered the call immediately by doubling their entire production from the perimeter in the first quarter during Game 2 by hitting 10 triples during the first 12 minutes. That electric shooting in the opening period tied an NBA Playoff record and they never took their foot off the gas as the Bucks finished this game shooting 22-for-53 from long range.
Sharpshooting reserve Bryn Forbes paved the way with his floor spacing by shooting 6-for-9 from distance in his 20 minutes of action and tallied 22 points off the bench. He was scorching hot from the moment he checked in and the Bucks must look to replicate that success in Game 3 by getting him opportune looks on the offensive end.
According to NBA.com/stats, Jrue Holiday has racked up seven assists courtesy of Forbes in these two matchups, his most among any teammate. Holiday’s playmaking paired with the shooting of Forbes is a perfect pairing and the team should give them more burn together.
Forbes was not the sole contributor off the bench in Milwaukee’s 3-point barrage as Pat Connaughton chipped in 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting from deep across his 19 minutes. The guard’s shooting has been largely inconsistent this season, but he undoubtedly caught fire in this matchup. With his minutes scattered over these first two games, Connaughton must look to keep riding the hot hand over these next two matchups in South Beach to earn himself some minutes.
Another 3-point onslaught from the Bucks would certainly help them establish themselves in tonight’s Game 3. Keep an eye on Forbes and Connaughton to make an immediate impact, although anyone on this roster could potentially get the hot hand.