Milwaukee Bucks: Crucial keys to victory vs. the Atlanta Hawks in Game 1

The Milwaukee Bucks must have the better supporting cast in Game 1 versus the Atlanta Hawks

Among the many interesting factors set to take center stage in this must-see matchup between the Bucks and Hawks, the supporting casts for each squad is a compelling one. While Trae Young and Giannis Antetokounmpo will headline the action, both team has a fearsome group of reinforcements behind them.

For the Bucks, Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday follow Giannis in the pecking order. These two were integral pieces in Milwaukee’s seven-game series victory over the Nets, displaying the impact that they can have on both ends of the floor. Although Middleton started the series off slow on the offensive end, he flipped the switch when the Bucks needed it and delivered in the series win. On the other hand, Holiday struggled mightily to establish any rhythm across the series and the Bucks will desperately need to get him going with his shot.

Aside from the Big 3, the rest of this team will play a massive factor. Brook Lopez and P.J. Tucker played key roles against the Nets on both ends of the floor. These two can flat-out play defense and it is only sweeter when their shots are dropping offensively. The second unit players are also interesting as Connaughton, Bryn Forbes, and Bobby Portis are all players that are capable of having a memorable game any given night.

As for Atlanta, their supporting stars have proved their importance to this point as well. Of course, all eyes will be fixated on Bogdan Bogdanovic after Milwaukee’s failed sign-and-trade to acquire him last offseason. The guard had himself a phenomenal year as Young’s co-star, although he has been hindered by a knee injury that has limited his availability in these playoffs. If he is cleared to play, the Bucks are well aware of what he brings to the table.

Another name worth monitoring is Kevin Huerter, who was Atlanta’s unsung hero in Game 7 against Philadelphia. With Young struggling to score the basketball all night, Huerter stepped up and scored 27 points en route to victory. He is yet another scorer on this team stacked with them and the bucks must keep an eye on him. Having not even mentioned John Collins, Clint Capela, or Danilo Gallinari, this roster is stacked with a talented supporting group.

Milwaukee’s ensemble must have a large impact in this matchup than Atlanta’s for them to stand a better chance. Both teams boast their share of talent across the board and it will be captivating to see which group steps up.

It will be must-see action between these two teams as Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals is set to take place tonight. Be sure to watch it at 7:30 p.m. CST on TNT.