As the NBA regular season nears its conclusion, the Milwaukee Bucks remain uncertain about their first-round playoff opponent, with the standings tightly packed. With just a handful of games left, the postseason picture is still shifting, leaving Milwaukee with several potential matchups depending on how the final stretch unfolds.
If the playoffs started today, the Bucks would enter as the sixth seed and face off against the New York Knicks in the first round. That would set up a compelling matchup, especially given New York’s dominance over Milwaukee this season, having won every head-to-head encounter. Adding to the uncertainty, Damian Lillard’s availability for the remainder of the season remains in question, which could further tilt the odds in favor of the Knicks.
While the latest roster change by New York may not drastically alter the outcome of a playoff series, it does introduce an intriguing subplot. The Knicks recently signed P.J. Tucker, a former Bucks forward and key member of Milwaukee’s 2021 championship team, to a two-year deal with a team option for the second season. This move ensures his eligibility for the postseason after he had completed two consecutive 10-day contracts with the team.
Tucker, despite only logging two minutes in a single game for the Knicks thus far, remains a respected veteran presence. Though his defensive impact has diminished with age, the 39-year-old brings valuable playoff experience and leadership—assets that can prove crucial in high-stakes matchups. For a team looking to make a deep playoff push, his presence in the locker room alone could be significant.
If the Bucks and Knicks do meet in the playoffs, Tucker may not play a major role on the court, but his past ties to Milwaukee could add an emotional element to the series. Having played alongside many of the Bucks’ current stars and knowing their tendencies, he might provide valuable strategic insight to his new team. Additionally, given the circumstances of his departure from Milwaukee, he could bring extra motivation to the matchup.
Of course, nothing is set in stone just yet. With eight regular-season games remaining, the standings remain fluid, and Milwaukee could just as easily find themselves facing the Indiana Pacers or even the Detroit Pistons in the first round. The next couple of weeks will ultimately determine their playoff fate.
For now, the Bucks continue to prepare for whatever challenge awaits them. Stay tuned for further updates on their postseason journey.
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