Bucks move up in power rankings after NBA Cup win

The Milwaukee Bucks have enjoyed a massive rebound after their terrible start to the 2024-25 NBA season.

After starting with a 2-8 record, the Bucks have now moved into fifth place in the Eastern Conference with a 14-11 record.

Nothing exemplifies Milwaukee’s hard work and dedication more than defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder 97-81 and ultimately winning the NBA Cup. And NBA experts have noticed.

The Bucks’ recent success has caused the term to rise in several publications’ power rankings, showing that a team can come back from the brink of disaster and become one of the biggest threats in the NBA.

Law Murray of The Athletic had Milwaukee jump from No. 14 to No. 11 and noted that the team has made some successful but difficult decisions when it comes to the rotation.

“As the Bucks continue to stabilize, they have made a difficult decision, excluding 10-year veteran Connaughton from the rotation,” Murray said. “Since taking over on Tuesday, he has played in just two of the last 12 games, with Khris Middleton returning, AJ Green appearing, Andre Jackson Jr. starting and Gary Trent Jr. on the bench.”

“Connaughton was part of the Bucks’ 2021 championship team, played with Damian Lillard in Portland and has a player option in 2025 that he will certainly pick up, limiting his chances of moving on. But at $9.4 million this season, it will be.” It will be interesting to see if the Bucks try to bring in a younger contributor.

Other publications increased the Bucks’ position even further. That includes ESPN, which moved Milwaukee up six spots to No. 7.

“The Bucks had a dominant performance in their win over the Thunder on Tuesday night to claim the 2024 NBA Cup crown,” said Jamal Collier. “After starting the season 2-8, the Bucks still have the best record in the NBA at 12-3 in their last 15 games since November 12th.”

“During that time, they ranked eighth in defensive efficiency, while Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmopo emerged as the highest-scoring tandem in the NBA with a combined average of 58.4 points.”

Finally, NBA.com’s John Schuhmann ranked Milwaukee seven spots to No. 8, citing the difference forward Khris Middleton made.

“Khris Middleton hasn’t played more than 23:08 in his last four games, but in the last five all four have been within five minutes and he’s been down every time,” Schuhmann said. “The Bucks were at their best in these four games with reserves on the field.”

“Middleton has already provided more assists to Giannis Antetokounmpo (15) in just 81 minutes than anyone on the team except Damian Lillard (52).”

More money: Milwaukee’s Bobby Portis hits an epic shot against the Lakers after winning the NBA Cup