By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Giannis Antetokounmpo is not following the early predictions regarding the outcome of the 2020 NBA playoffs but is determined to make his best effort in leading the Milwaukee Bucks all the way to the top. Heading into the playoffs and the best-of-seven series versus the Orlando Magic, his side went 3-5 in the seeding games.
“We were not really ourselves,” admitted the 2019 MVP, “At moments we were playing good basketball, we were playing together and defending, but we have to do that in long stretches in order to win the championship.”
His own outings resulted in 27.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.3 blocks per appearance. The Bucks confirmed themselves as the top seed of the Eastern Conference and in first place of the overall standings mainly thanks to their strong run prior to the lengthy hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“It wasn’t frustrating because we were losing. Like, losing is part of basketball, losing is part of the game. But, obviously, what was frustrating because at times I think we weren’t ourselves,” he said, “We weren’t moving the ball as much as I wanted to move the ball or as much as coach Bud wants us to move the ball. We weren’t defending as hard.”
Game 1 of the series against the Magic will take place Tuesday.
“This is in the past, it is playoffs time,” stated Antetokounmpo shifting to the postseason, “If everybody is on the same page and focus, I believe we can play way better.”
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