The Milwaukee Bucks have been quite an unlucky franchise for the past two years. Injuries have got the best out of Giannis Antetokounmpo and company who are trying to get back into the Finals. Following their 2021 championship run, there is no doubt that the Bucks have established themselves as title contenders each season. Especially after the addition of Damian Lillard. But what’s kept them from dominating the East? Well, their MVP along with other crucial pieces haven’t been healthy when needed the most. This also puts a lot of pressure on Doc Rivers’ job as the head coach, considering his history with Philly and the Sixers.

In the last two years, the Bucks have faced consecutive first-round exits. The Greek Freak has played a total of three games in the previous two post-seasons. Not to mention, Antetokounmpo missed the entirety of the playoffs this year due to his calf injury. However, against all odds, the veteran, Khris Middleton has played through all the pain.

Heading into the first round, the Bucks relied on Lillard and Middleton to stand the Pacers. The sorrows didn’t end even during the playoffs as Lillard sat out two games due to his Achilles injury. Middleton, on the other hand, injured his right foot in Game two, but still managed to play through the pain, putting up a 42-point bomb in the following matchup.

Amid all the unfortunate injuries affecting their title hopes, Brian Windhorst may have just boosted Milwaukee fans’ confidence. “It’s very easy to poo-poo their seasons when they haven’t had their MVP out there when the season’s on the line. They’ve had the misfortune of having their superstar get injured in the playoffs two consecutive years… I think a lot of things would have to align for them to make another run back to the finals. But I think you start from the basis that they do have the talent to do it.”, said Windhorst on the NBA ON ESPN podcast.

At the end of the day, the Bucks have an experienced and balanced roster. If healthy, Milwaukee will be looking at a deep playoff run this year. And as Windy mentioned, a healthy roster with consistency can help the Bucks make a run back to the Finals. Lillard, though not as impactful on the scoring end as he used to be, has been pretty efficient, especially in the postseason. In the four postseason games, Dame averaged 31.3 points, 5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds while shooting over 41% from deep. But could he become the savior of Doc Rivers this upcoming season?

The Freak and Damian Lillard’s health is the key

Now, a healthy Giannis is always a threat in the East. Milwaukee’s forward and guard duo hasn’t fully functioned yet in the post-season. When it comes to reliable assets around the two players, they have it all covered. Middleton is one of the best 3-and-D players when Giannis is on the floor.

Brook Lopez has been an amazing center, having averaged 17.7 points while shooting 58% from the field and over 43% from three. Bobby Portis has also been a reliable role player throughout the regular season, putting up 13.8 points, and 7.4 rebounds, ranking third on the 6MOY award!

Yes, at this point, the Bucks only need one healthy season to make a statement. Of course, apart from a healthy roster being the major factor, there are also some concerns around the aging players. Middleton and Lillard are both nearing 35, with Lopez still playing his game at 36. But then again, they still have a few years to work with and eventually make it back to the Finals.

As they head into the next season, the Bucks will find themselves with new contenders around them. While Milwaukee leveled with the Celtics and the Heat, they’ll be welcomed by a newly formed Sixers, the Knicks, and the emerging Orlando Magic.

It won’t be easy to make a deep playoff run this year. But on the bright side, the Bucks are still one of the top five teams in the East. It will be interesting to see what a healthy Milwaukee roster is capable of, come 2025 postseason. What are your thoughts on the Bucks’ future? Do you think Damian Lillard has to step up? Let us know in the comments.

Feel that you can do with another update from the sport of basketball? Then do check out this recent interview with the up-and-coming Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.