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OKC Thunder finish back-to-back set vs. Milwaukee Bucks: game preview

By Matthew Hallett

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 10: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Oklahoma City Thunder attempts a shot in the second quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum on April 10, 2019 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 10: Dennis Schroder #17 of the Oklahoma City Thunder attempts a shot in the second quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at the Fiserv Forum on April 10, 2019 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images) /
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OKC Thunder (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
OKC Thunder (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

Keys to the game

With the Bucks being the best scoring team in the NBA, it is going to be crucial that the OKC Thunder defense is focused for the full 24 seconds each time. The problem for every opposing team is there is simply no rest with the Bucks.

The starting unit is one of the best in the NBA, however, there is always the bench to consider. Robin Lopez was a starter on the Chicago Bulls last year, Kyle Korver is the best 3-point shooter the game has seen and George Hill is a starting caliber point guard coming off the bench.

The OKC Thunder bench has been a pleasant surprise this year. Nerlens Noel and Dennis Schroder are more than a match for most second units. Add to this the spark that is Hamidou Diallo and the Thunder should prove a match for the best team in the East last season

The key match-up for the game is Antetokounmpo against Steven Adams. Antetokounmpo is a beast inside so stopping him from getting into the paint is key to the success of Thunder. If he cannot get the shot he wants, Antetokounmpo has the ability to kick the ball out to the open shooter.

It is not just going to be Adams who has this responsibility, the whole team is going to have to be able to build a wall before rotating effectively to the open man that Antetokounmpo will find. He is the most difficult player in the NBA to cover.

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