As these storylines are poised to play out during the NBA playoffs, passionate rivalries and high stakes matchups will take center stage. Just as all eyes will be on teams as they prepare for best-of-seven series, the real stars will take the stage. Those critical statistics will dramatically affect the outcomes. Among the most notable narratives is Luka Doncic’s impressive performance against Rudy Gobert in last year’s conference finals, where he averaged 32.4 points and shot 43% from beyond the arc. Now, this time around as the playoffs get underway, fans are going to want to know if Doncic can do just that with a repeat performance.
In the Eastern Conference, the Indiana Pacers and Milwaukee Bucks have developed a more formidable rivalry. In 2023-24, Indiana absolutely owned Milwaukee, winning four of their five matchups. This dazzling display is a testament to Indiana’s ability to rise up and face the defending champs. The Bucks proved their mettle this season by taking three of four from the Pacers this season. Perhaps more importantly, their strategic improvements made the victories possible. Milwaukee just enjoyed their recent success by winning the 2024 NBA Cup title. Now, they’re under the gun to continue that clip and pace strong going into the playoffs.
Amen Thompson played a key role the last time these two faced each other, limiting Stephen Curry to just 1-of-10 shooting. This introduces a compelling wrinkle to the narrative. This defensive effort demonstrates the Rockets’ renewed commitment to frustrating high-profile scorers as they prepare for a playoff run. The Houston Rockets are going to the playoffs! Now, they’re set up to do it all over again by pulling the upset on the top-seeded teams.
In the first round of last year’s playoffs, the Orlando Magic averaged just 100.3 points in a seven-game loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Given this performance, it’s fair to question their offensive capabilities as they head into this year’s contest. On the East Coast, we have the unpredictability of the playoffs, which is highlighted by Kawhi Leonard’s absence against his opponents in past playoff appearances.
Just last month the Los Angeles Lakers—the 2020 champions—again showed the West’s newfound dominance, smashing Oklahoma City by 27 points in April. Yet the scorching 55% they shot from beyond the arc in that game is considered unsustainable. Minnesota can benefit from using its length and speedy perimeter defenders on opponents. Either way, they need to key in on stopping Los Angeles’ offensive attack.
With the playoffs fast approaching, Milwaukee’s quest for supplementary scoring will be key to their success. Kyle Kuzma, who averaged 14.5 points with below-average efficiency after joining the Bucks at the trade deadline, must step up for Milwaukee to enhance their scoring depth.
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