This is not an article by an expert or a professional but from a fan of Basketball. I am writing this as someone that just wants to watch a good game 7.
Many people have expected the Bucks to crash and not even reach a game 5 in the current semifinals of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoffs, the critics keep hammering on the fact that Giannis is not really a clutch player.
In game 5 where Kevin Durant made 49 points, a lot of people criticized Giannis for not stepping up even though he had 34pts and 12 rebounds. Giannis did his job and still he was criticized for either not defending KD or for shooting too many 3s.
We should also note that the Nets have been unfortunate with injuries to James Harden and Kyrie Irving. Only Durant has been fit throughout this series.
Now in game 6, Giannis Antetokounmpo had 30pts and 17 rebounds and the critics say “he is not a clutch player”. What exactly do people want from Giannis? He is doing all he has to do, one they say he shouldn’t be attempting so many 3s, so in game 6 he didn’t even attempt one 3pt shot and still he is being criticized for not being a closer.
In game 7 all eyes will be on Giannis Antetokounmpo even though the Nets are at home and have all the advantage. KD will be dropping the buckets from anywhere on the court and a half-fit James Harden will be on hand to assist him.
The Bucks will have to step up and not lose their lead if they ever take the lead. The Bucks got themselves into this position by giving up the lead in game 5 when they could have just held on and finished off the game.
So, in real sense Giannis is not a finisher, which is not bad but he is a player that makes his teammates better. Him on the floor is a major advantage than him being off. With Giannis Antetokounmpo on the floor, the defence is always in disarray giving the other players opportunity to perform and shoot shots.
Both teams have won their home games and this most important game will be as physical as it can be. We should be expecting the best of basketball and also the the most physical game in the playoffs just yet.
