The Milwaukee Bucks lost their Eastern Conference Finals opener at home to the Atlanta Hawks, and were obviously eager to redeem themselves in Friday’s Game 2.
In a truly stunning blend of offensive firepower and defensive prowess, Milwaukee indeed struck the fear of the Deer into the Hawks, blowing the visitors off the court in the opening half to take a commanding 77-45 lead.
Jrue Holiday is known for his lockdown perimeter defense, yet over the past two contests, is showing off his full arsenal of offensive skills for the Bucks. Holiday led Milwaukee with 19 points at the break, while Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton chipped in a cool 17 and 13 respectively. Those two also combined for 11 assists.
As you might expect, the folks on NBA Twitter had a little fun at Atlanta’s expense, but also praised the Bucks’ ability to bounce back.
Remember, Trae Young went off for 48 points and 11 assists in Game 1 at Fiserv Forum. Friday night was a different story, as Young bricked his first six 3-point attempts, and committed eight turnovers through two quarters.
Leading by 32 points almost guarantees Milwaukee will even this series at one apiece. Although you can never count out the upstart, youthful Hawks and a lethal shooter like Young, it’s pretty safe to say the Bucks have this one in the bag.
Without further ado, behold the wonderful world of social media to help us appreciate perhaps the best all-around half of basketball we’ve seen yet in the 2021 NBA playoffs from one team. Honestly, it couldn’t have gone much better for the home squad.