Milwaukee Bucks (43-14)
Through the NBA All-Star break, the Milwaukee Bucks have the best record in the NBA, which translates to them sitting in the top spot of the Eastern Conference. Led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who has a real shot to win the NBA MVP award this season, the Bucks might possess the biggest threat to the Warriors.
They’ve had a sensational first year under head coach Mike Budenholzer, and it’s going to be interesting to see if this team can carry their regular season success into the playoffs. For many up-and-coming teams, this year’s playoffs will be the first real test.
The Bucks have made the playoffs before with this core, but haven’t gotten out of the first-round of the Eastern Conference playoffs since 2000-01. The Bucks have had a great year, but can top it all off by making a deep run in the post-season.
Grade: A