The Milwaukee Bucks started the season with a disappointing 2-8 record, raising questions about their ability to contend for a championship. Since then, however, they’ve turned things around in dramatic fashion. Over their last 14 games, the Bucks have gone 11-3, including a win against Orlando in the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals, showcasing their offensive firepower, improved cohesion, and elite execution in key areas. Here are three stats that highlight why the Bucks are trending upward.
The Numbers Behind the Bucks’ Recent Rise: 3 Key Stats
(Corner) 3-Point Efficiency
The Bucks lead the league in corner 3-point percentage (50.2%), showing their ability to capitalize on one of basketball’s most valuable shots. Overall, Milwaukee’s shooting from beyond the arc has been elite, as they are tied for 2nd in the NBA in three-point percentage (39.3%), alongside the New York Knicks.
Players like Taurean Prince, who leads the entire NBA in three-point percentage (53.6%), and AJ Green, shooting an impressive 47.5% from deep, have been instrumental in this success. Damian Lillard’s elite playmaking and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s ability to draw defenders have created high-quality looks from the corners. This floor spacing has been a cornerstone of Milwaukee’s resurgence, allowing the Bucks to punish opponents from beyond the arc.
Effective Shooting in Wins
When the Bucks win, they win efficiently. Their effective field goal percentage (60.2%) in victories ranks 3rd in the NBA, reflecting their ability to capitalize on high-quality scoring opportunities.
This success has been driven by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is averaging 32.7 points per game on 61.2% shooting, after becoming the first player in NBA history last season to average over 30 points on 60% shooting. Damian Lillard adds another 25.8 points per game, keeping defenses on their heels with his long-range shooting.
The return of Khris Middleton has further complemented this efficiency. Despite limited minutes, Middleton has averaged 6.3 assists per game in his first three games back, showcasing his ability to create scoring opportunities for others, which has elevated the Bucks’ overall offensive cohesion.
Mid-Range Excellence
The Bucks are proving that the mid-range game is still alive and well. Ranking sixth in mid-range field goal percentage (44.1%), while attempting the second-most mid-range shots in the league, behind only the Sacramento Kings, Milwaukee has added versatility to its offense.
Bobby Portis has been a key contributor lately, with 23.0% of his points coming from mid-range. While Portis has struggled for consistency this season, he’s been dominant in his last two games, averaging 22.5 points and 7.5 rebounds on incredible 86/88/67 splits, with a true shooting percentage of 100.8%.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has also made significant strides in this area, improving his midrange efficiency to make defenses pay when they try to wall him off. This midrange reliability adds an extra layer to Milwaukee’s offense, giving them options in tight playoff-style situations when defenses often take away the three-point line and the paint.
Beyond the Stats: What’s Next for the Bucks
The Bucks’ recent performance is more than just a hot streak—it’s evidence of a team finding its rhythm and establishing its identity. The addition of Khris Middleton’s playmaking and vision has further enhanced the Bucks’ offensive fluidity, while standout contributions from the bench show the depth of this team.
However, the work is far from over. To maintain their momentum, the Bucks must continue building on these strengths and refining their chemistry as the season progresses. The next step in their journey could come in the Emirates NBA Cup, where they face the Atlanta Hawks in the semifinals. Securing the Cup would not only add a trophy to their collection but also further solidify their status as one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
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