Win streak will be tested against Bucks
20+ points and tie the NBA’s all-time mark. Milwaukee also will be chasing its 15th win in a row.
The Magic, who will be playing without starting center Nikola Vucevic for the ninth straight game, know they have their work cut out for them.
“They’re playing so fast and they also score off their defense a lot,” Clifford said. “What you’re going to have to do, you’ll have to be good in all aspects of the game, which is what we need.”
The Bucks rank first in per game averages for points (121.0), rebounds (51.8), defensive rebounds (41.6), defensive rating (101.1), net rating (12.4), pace (105.7), points off turnovers (19.2), opponent points in the paint (39.9), contested 2-point field goals (46.3) and contested 3-point field goals (28.8).
They’re also second in fast-break points per game (18.9). They recorded 36 in the first meeting with the Magic.
Milwaukee now has the fourth-best points differential (+312) through the first 23 games of a season in NBA history, according to ESPN.
“Obviously they are one of the best teams in the league,” Magic shooting guard Evan Fournier said. “No. 1 in defense, they have the MVP. What else can you say? They’re playing terrific. We have to bring our A game.”
For the Bucks, everything starts with reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. His ability to get to the basket (12.0 drives per game) pushes the offense as the Bucks surround him with perimeter shooters. They rank third in 3-point attempts (39.8) and 3-pointers (14.1) per game.
Fournier said when Antetokounmpo penetrates, the Magic have to be connected as a team defensively.
“What makes it hard, really, is not them being five out. It’s because they have Giannis that can drive so much,” Fournier said. “He’s so good at driving that you’re going to have to help and that’s where being five out, it’s hard to guard.”
Antetokounmpo, who finished with 29 points, 14 rebounds and six assists in the first game against the Magic, is averaging 30.8 points per game — second only to James Harden (38.5) in the NBA.
The Magic return home Wednesday to face the Western Conference-leading Los Angeles Lakers in a 7 p.m. tipoff.