Patrick Beverley didn’t hold back in slamming critics of the Milwaukee Bucks following their undefeated streak after the All-Star break.
“At All-Star break, they talked about us like a dog, didn’t they? They got on TV, they clowned our players, and they told the coach he was… They clowned us, didn’t they? Little quiet now.”
The apology needs to be as loud as the disrespect pic.twitter.com/d9gfyjVRFJ
— Pat Bev Pod (@PatBevPod) March 2, 2024
The Bucks, under the leadership of coach Doc Rivers, faced significant scrutiny prior to the break, with criticism directed towards both the players and the coaching staff. However, Beverley was quick to remind everyone of the Bucks’ recent success and silence their detractors.
Before the All-Star break, the Bucks were struggling, with a record of 3-7 in their last 10 games under Rivers’ leadership. Moreover, they faced criticism from JJ Redick and Draymond Green as well, who publicly criticized Rivers. Patrick Beverley himself took to Twitter to defend his coach amidst the backlash. However, the Bucks’ fortunes took a turn for the better after the break.
Since the All-Star break, the Bucks have been on a tear, going undefeated in five games with an impressive average margin of victory of 18.4 points. This remarkable turnaround has not gone unnoticed, particularly on the defensive end. Under Rivers’ guidance, the Bucks’ defensive rating has improved significantly, climbing from 22nd to 5th in the league.
While some may argue that the Bucks’ recent victories came against weaker opponents like the Charlotte Hornets and the struggling Chicago Bulls, they also secured wins against playoff-caliber teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite facing teams of varying calibers, the Bucks have displayed confidence and determination, indicating their readiness to take on any challenge.
Looking ahead, the Bucks recognize the importance of facing tougher opponents to truly test their mettle. However, their recent success has undoubtedly boosted their morale and instilled a sense of belief within the team. With Rivers at the helm and a roster filled with talent and determination, the Bucks are poised to continue their winning ways and silence any remaining doubters.
As Patrick Beverley aptly stated, the critics may have been vocal before, but their silence now speaks volumes about the Bucks’ resurgence and their potential to compete at the highest level.
The Celtics Will Have To Keep An Eye On The Bucks
Despite the Milwaukee Bucks trailing behind the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference standings, sitting at the third seed, the Celtics would be wise to keep a watchful eye on their potential playoff matchup. Despite the significant gap between them, with the Celtics leading by eight games and boasting a formidable record of 47-12, the Bucks remain a threat that cannot be underestimated.
While the Celtics may currently be overwhelming favorites to emerge from the East and secure a spot in the NBA Finals, the Bucks have proven themselves to be formidable opponents in the past. In the 2022 NBA playoffs, the Celtics were pushed to a grueling seven-game series by the Bucks, even without the presence of key player Khris Middleton.
This close encounter serves as a stark reminder of the Bucks’ ability to compete at the highest level, especially now with the addition of Damian Lillard to their roster.
While the Bucks may have struggled defensively in the past, their recent improvements suggest they are becoming a more well-rounded team. With each passing day, the Bucks are refining their defensive schemes and tightening up their play on that end of the floor. This poses a potential threat to the Celtics, who must be prepared to face a more resilient and disciplined Bucks team in any future matchups.
Given the Bucks’ history of pushing the Celtics to their limits and their recent improvements, the Celtics would be remiss to overlook them as a serious contender in the Eastern Conference. As the playoffs draw nearer, the Celtics will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on the Bucks’ progress, recognizing the need to prepare thoroughly for any potential showdowns with their conference rivals.
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