Heading into their crucial Game 3 matchup on Friday night, the Indiana Pacers currently hold a 2-0 series lead over the Milwaukee Bucks. Indiana eliminated the Bucks in the first round last year, and at this rate, they are in a good spot to do the same this season.
What stands out the most about the Pacers' first two series is how convincingly they won. Game 1 was a 19-point blowout victory, and though Game 2 was closer, the Pacers never trailed in the game. Both of those games were at home for the Pacers, which is important to remember. However, as it stands, Pacers fans should be happy about the team taking care of business. They will now travel to Milwaukee and aim to take a commanding 3-0 series lead.
There is still a lot of series left, but the Pacers should feel good about their situation. Furthermore, in addition to being up 2-0, a major trend became noticeable, and it bodes well for the Pacers' chances of eliminating the Bucks in the series.
A series victory might be in line for the Pacers
Ahead of the series, many had concerns about the Pacers' ability to guard Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. So far, these concerns remain valid.
Through two games, the former NBA Champion averaged 35 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1.5 blocks. Additionally, he is shooting 65.1% from the field on 21.5 field goal attempts per game. Antetokounmpo played out of his mind to end the regular season, and that carried over into the playoffs. However, despite Antetokounmpo's performances, the Bucks are still down in the series and are not in a great spot to turn it around, which is a good sign for the Pacers.
A major reason the Pacers have had the Bucks' number is that their speed and energy are too much for them to handle. The Bucks are too slow to match up against the Pacers on both sides of the ball. Additionally, because of the Pacers' energy on defense (especially on closeouts), they have made it even more difficult for Milwaukee's role players to contribute.
Antetokounmpo is a great player and a future Hall of Famer. However, he cannot win a playoff series on his own. Now that Damian Lillard is officially back, the Bucks may be in a better position to compete in the series. However, it may be too little, too late. The Pacers cannot take their foot off the pedal just yet, but at this rate, a series victory over the Bucks may be all but guaranteed.