Sixers and Eastern Conference powers get tangled in standings

Joel Embiid, Sixers, Jimmy Butler, Heat (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Joel Embiid, Sixers, Jimmy Butler, Heat (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
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(Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images)
(Photo by Corey Perrine/Getty Images)

Bucks’ big man has Sixers on alert

Defending a championship is a tough task for any organization. Working for consecutive accolades is a different goal of its own. Mike Budenholzer and the Milwaukee Bucks have made it clear that they have their sights set on the Larry O’Brien trophy. Capturing another title will strengthen the legacy of players like Giannis Antetokounmpo. His skill set and leadership have helped the Bucks stay relevant in early playoff conversations.

Giannis and his teammates have had issues with staying consistent this year. His 28 points a game average this season has kept the season above water so far. Efforts from Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday have helped take the pressure of scoring from the league’s most recent MVP. Both Middleton and Holiday are contributing more than seven17 points per game.

Losses to the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Washington Wizards have repositioned the reigning champions out of a top-three conference ranking. Upcoming games against the Lakers, Sixers, and Suns will only cause temperatures to rise in the Eastern Conference.