Preview: Celtics Prepare to Lock Horns with Bucks
Michael Dwyer | Associated Press
The Celtics have gone 2-5 since the All-Star break, losing tough games to the Kings and Cavaliers along the way. They’ll take on reigning two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks tonight.
Antetokounmpo is averaging 29.0 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 6.4 assists on the year. Both Khris Middleton (20.4 points) and Jrue Holiday (15.9 points) are having solid seasons for Milwaukee as well. After that the team has three other scorers averaging double digits - Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Donte Divincenzo.
The Bucks currently sit at third place in the Eastern Conference with a 28-14 record. They’ve won nine of their last ten games, including being undefeated since the All-Star break. This stretch includes wins over 76ers, Knicks, and Pacers.
Boston, on the other hand, has been struggling with consistency. As mentioned, they are 2-5 since the break and treading around the .500 mark. They currently sit at 8th in the Eastern Conference, but spots four through 10 are all within three games of each other. Boston remains active in trade talks ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline.
Since the break, both Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have been averaging right around 25 points a night. Outside of that, however, the C’s have struggled to find success scoring the ball. Jeff Teague had a nice scoring outing vs Memphis, but the lack of a true third scoring option has held back the team all season.
Tristan Thompson and Romeo Langford remain out for the Celtics tonight due to health and safety protocols. Tatum, who was a late scratch last game, is listed nowhere. For the Bucks, Rodions Kurucs is listed as out. Antetokounmpo, PJ Tucker, and Bryn Forbes are all currently listed as questionable for tonight.
Make sure to tune in to our live pregame show, the Banner Town Build Up, 30 minutes before the game on YouTube and Twitter @GuyBostonSports. The Celtics tip-off against the Bucks at 7:30 PM EST.
