The league-leading Milwaukee Bucks continue their season with a potentially tricky matchup against a much-improved Pelicans team that has successfully integrated Zion Williamson into the rotation.
The Bucks suffered a rare loss last week against Denver, but they remain on pace for a 70-win season. Giannis Antetokounmpo & Co. own a superb 42-7 record through 49 games. They have lost just twice in their last 17 games. Giannis has had some health issues lately, but that didn’t stop the reigning MVP from dropping a big 30-point, 19-rebound double-double in Sunday’s win over Phoenix.
The Pelicans still own a losing record with 20-30, but they have made up a lot of ground after the holidays by going 13-7 in their last 20 games, and Zion’s addition should make them feel confident of their playoff chances. Williamson is averaging 19.5 points and 8.2 rebounds in 26.3 minutes through his first six career games. It will be a fascinating battle between him and Antetokounmpo.
The Greek Freak missed this season’s first meeting of the teams, but the Bucks still won 127-112. The Pelicans used to dominate the matchup during the Anthony Davis era, but the tide has turned, with Milwaukee winning three straight meetings.
This match preview was originally posted at tipstrr.
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