Trae Young, Hawks look to regroup at home in Game 3 against Bucks

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Hawks’ path to the Eastern Conference finals provides reason to remain optimistic after a humbling Game 2 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks evened the series at 1-1.

The Bucks can draw on their past playoff experience to bolster their confidence in their championship aspirations. This is the second time in three years that Milwaukee has made it to the conference finals, having previously lost to Toronto in 2019. With a squad full of talent, spearheaded by Giannis Antetokounmpo, it was widely anticipated that they would be in the running for the championship this season.

Thanks to Friday night’s resounding 125-91 win in Game 2, the Bucks take momentum into Sunday night’s Game 3 in Atlanta.

“Ultimately, there needs to be a sense of urgency, yet it’s important to appreciate our presence here because we put in a tremendous amount of effort to be among the last four teams,” said Antetokounmpo, who led the Bucks with 25 points.

“But you know, there’s obviously going to be some urgency now that we’re hitting the road.”

This marks only the second time the Hawks have reached the conference finals in their history since being in Atlanta. Their last appearance was in 2015, where they were defeated by Cleveland.

The Hawks have already exceeded expectations as the No. 5 seed. Having finished last in their Southeast Division and failing to make the playoffs for the past three years, their sudden success this season under interim coach Nate McMillan is surprising.

Atlanta has consistently been viewed as the underdog in every playoff round. Despite this, the Hawks managed to win their series opener on the road against both the New York Knicks in the first round and the top-seeded Philadelphia 76ers in the conference semifinals, before succumbing in the second game. The same pattern has been observed in their matchup against Milwaukee.

The shocking Game 2 defeat of the Hawks served as a reminder that they have three players – Trae Young, John Collins, and Kevin Huerter – who are experiencing their first postseason.

The Bucks led by 41 points and never fell behind.

The young Hawks have demonstrated their ability to secure victories in tight playoff games. With a record of 4-0 in games determined by three points or less, and 6-1 when the point gap is seven or less, they have shown their mettle. The next challenge for them is to prove their resilience.

“Collins stated, “We absolutely need to increase our competitive edge and intensity. This is all part of our growth into experienced players capable of handling a championship run, particularly since this is our first attempt. While it’s not an excuse, such situations are common. The responsibility lies with us to enhance our performance and make necessary adjustments.”

Trae’s swag

Young faces the test of recapturing the boldness he exhibited when he netted 48 points in Atlanta’s 116-113 victory in Game 1 on Wednesday night. He made a mark early in Game 2 with a steal and long jumper that reduced Milwaukee’s lead to 15-12. He marked his achievement with a shoulder shake, a shimmy he first showcased in the opening game.

Young endured a tough night, with the rare highlight being his 15 points. However, he equaled his career-high nine turnovers, marking a night of struggles. He took responsibility for the team’s defeat.

“Young said, “It was simply one of those nights and it happens like that sometimes. It’s unfortunate that it happened tonight, but we need to be able to recover”.”

Ruling the paint

The 3-point shot plays a crucial role in Milwaukee’s offensive strategy, however, the Bucks have demonstrated their proficiency in basket drives. It is anticipated that the Bucks will attempt to utilize this successful strategy again on Sunday night.

Guided by Antetokounmpo, the Bucks scored 62-30 against the Hawks in the paint. This strategy allowed the two-time MVP to successfully make 11 out of 18 field shots and contribute a game-high nine rebounds. Despite missing all his three 3-point attempts, his performance was dominant.

“Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer said, “I believe he established the tone from the start. There were a few drives and finishes that were exactly what we anticipate from Giannis.”

Free and clear

McMillan will be keeping a close eye to ensure that officials maintain surveillance of Antetokounmpo’s duration at the free-throw line, following the NBA’s statement that 10-second violations should have been enforced towards the end of Game 1. Antetokounmpo hit three out of four free throws in Game 2, firmly asserting that he did not alter his routine at the line in any way.

“He said, ‘I approached this game with the mindset to follow my routine, take as many dribbles as possible, catch my breath, and just take my shot.'”

Reddish returns

The most promising indication for the Hawks in the series might have been Cam Reddish’s comeback from an Achilles injury. In his first game since February 21, he scored 11 points in 17 minutes.

“Young said, “To be honest, that was the only positive thing tonight.”

Reddish provides more perimeter depth for Atlanta as Bogdan Bogdanovic is hampered by soreness in his right knee.

“I felt positive,” expressed Reddish. “The thrill of returning was exhilarating. Of course, it was initially a tad strange, but as the game progressed, I found my rhythm and grew more at ease. I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming match.”