NBA: 5 teams facing the most pressure heading into the 2019-20 season

Milwaukee Bucks

The Milwaukee Bucks should not get complacent this season like they did last year. After posting a 60-22 record, the best in the NBA, cruising to the Eastern Conference Finals – the Bucks were embarrassed by the eventual champions Toronto Raptors. Which effectively gave the NBA an early blueprint to how to stop Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The loss also exposed another glaring weakness in the Bucks roster – the lack of a co-star to run alongside Antetokounmpo. Sure Khris Middleton was an All-Star last year but can he put the team over on nights Antetokounmpo can’t get his own? It doesn’t look like that’s the case. Middleton is more suited for a third option role on a contending team. Middleton must prove he is that co-star this year especially after recieving a huge payday.

Another reason why this season is Finals or bust is the impending decision of Antetokounmpo. He has pledged loyalty to the Bucks franchise in the past. Other stars have the done the same thing too… but ended up leaving their original team high-and-dry. The decision hinges on the Bucks success this season.

The Bucks are in a precarious position. Fall short of expectations and risk the departure of a superstar (ex. Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James). Win and things become clearer. The pressure is on in Milwaukee.