The Golden State Warriors beat the Milwaukee Bucks at the Chase Center today. The matchup was a possible NBA Finals matchup and was a statement game for both teams. Unfortunately, the reigning defending champions fell short and got blown out by the Warriors. Giannis had a 31 point game but it wasn’t enough to stop the barrage from Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole.
The Bucks felt the absence of Brook Lopez as they struggled to defend the Warriors. Splash Mountain as he is called, has been out due to injury the entire season. He was the key rim protector and anchor on defence for the Bucks. Without him, the Bucks lack size and allow a lot of penetration to the basket. The Bucks are 14th in defensive efficiency this season and will have to improve that if they want a chance to win a championship this season.
The Warriors on the other hand were rolling on all cylinders. Klay Thompson led the team with 38 points, 5 assists, and 6 rebounds. He had help from Jordan Poole who also had a very good game and had 30 points, 5 assists, and 6 rebounds. The duo became the first Warrior teammates since Kevin Durant and Steph Curry to have 30+ points, 5+ assists, and 5+ rebounds.
While Steph had a season low scoring night with only 8 points his impact on the game was amazing. He got his teammates involved and had 8 assists. The Bucks’ defence was so focused on Steph that Klay and Poole got open looks throughout the game. They weren’t the only ones with good games. Andrew Wiggins had 21 points and Jonathan Kuminga had 14 points and 11 rebounds.
The game said a lot about both teams. The Warriors look like they are getting a healthy Klay Thompson back and are figuring out their offence. Once Draymond Green returns, the offence should function much more smoothly with him facilitating. The Bucks on the other desperately need to improve their defence. If they don’t, their championship hopes might be for nought this season.
