Bucks Zone

How Giannis Antetokounmpo's return changes the dynamics of the Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis' return can be a game-changer for the Bucks.
Jonas Panerio|
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Milwaukee Bucks

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo made his long-awaited return to the lineup in Game 4, albeit it did little to change the team’s fortunes as they fell 119-114, and now face the daunting task of coming back from a 3-1 series deficit. However, having a two-time league MVP in uniform and on the floor gives the Bucks a much better chance of pulling this herculean feat off.

The Greek Freak changes the dynamics of both ends of the floor

Although Giannis was obviously not 100%, at times grabbing at his back during breaks in the action, the Greek Freak still did all he could to put the Bucks in the right position to win, amassing 26 points on 13-of-22 shooting, along with 13 assists, and 10 rebounds in 38 minutes of action. The triple-double was the third of his NBA Playoff career.

Veteran forward Jae Crowder says having Giannis back makes things significantly better for the team on both ends of the floor.

"It changes the dynamic of our team," said Crowder. "He does a great job of covering up a lot on the defensive end, and offensively he draws a lot of attention, so I think shots will come easier, the offense will flow a little better.”

Encouraging numbers

Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer credited Giannis’ gutsiness and said there was little Giannis could do better to help the Bucks come away with the win. He added they’d dive through the game tape to see what adjustments they can make to kick off their comeback bid in Game 5 on Wednesday.

“I thought Giannis was mostly phenomenal," Budenholzer said. "Thirteen assists. I thought he found guys and made the right play. He got to the basket and finished. I’m not sure what more Giannis could’ve done. I thought his passing and playmaking was fantastic. So, we’ll look at the film and see where everybody could be better, but for Giannis to come back and play tonight and play the way he did is very encouraging.”

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO