Bucks' Leap of Faith with Lillard
The Milwaukee Bucks have embarked on a transformative journey this season, marked by the acquisition of superstar Damian Lillard in a seismic trade that saw Jrue Holiday depart. This bold move has reshaped the landscape of the Bucks, pairing Lillard with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo and former All-Star Khris Middleton, forming a formidable trio that could be a force in the NBA.
As with any significant lineup change, the early stages have been both promising and challenging. Lillard's scoring prowess was on full display during a recent NBA Cup quarterfinal against the Orlando Magic, where he scored 11 of Milwaukee’s final 13 points, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Finished with 28 points and nine assists, Lillard's contribution was indispensable in securing victory.
However, a closer inspection of Lillard's performance in clutch moments reveals a more nuanced picture. This season, his effective field-goal percentage on clutch shots stands at 42.3%, which, while respectable, pales in comparison to Stephen Curry's astounding 70.3% in similar situations. Moreover, Lillard has struggled beyond the arc in these moments, converting only three out of 14 attempts.
The Bucks’ journey this season has been a tale of two halves. After a dismal start of 2-8, the team roared back to win 11 out of their last 14 games, improving their record to a respectable 13-11. It is important to note that only three of those wins came against teams with winning records, raising questions about the team's ability to consistently compete against top-tier opponents.
Middleton’s gradual return from injury has undoubtedly bolstered the Bucks' fortunes. Last season, the combination of Lillard, Giannis, and Middleton was a powerhouse, achieving a plus-16.3 per 100 possessions. This metric highlights their potential effectiveness when all three players are healthy and playing in sync.
In the last eight games, Lillard has found his rhythm, averaging over 27 points and seven assists while shooting with remarkable accuracy at 49/45/93. Such numbers underscore his capability to adapt and thrive within Milwaukee’s system, especially when considering his surge in three-point shooting efficiency — making over 40% — since getting past the first few games of the season.
The Bucks’ decision to bring Lillard into the fold represents a significant gamble, yet it is one backed by data and potential. With Giannis and Middleton augmenting his play, the Bucks have the makings of a championship-caliber squad. As the season unfolds, their true test will lie in how they fare against the NBA’s strongest teams and how well they can harness their trio’s potential to outmaneuver them.