NBA Playoffs must-follow storylines: Boston Celtics vs. Milwaukee Bucks

Dec 25, 2021; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during the game against the Boston Celtics at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

In what’s expected to be an ultra-competitive series, the Milwaukee Bucks will meet the Boston Celtics in the second round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs, with Game 1 beginning Sunday, 1:00 PM EST at TD Garden.

Both Eastern Conference contenders are playing excellent basketball at the moment. The second-seeded Celtics just swept the Brooklyn Nets in impressive fashion during the first round, while the defending champions and third-seeded Bucks eliminated the Chicago Bulls with a gentleman’s sweep, winning the series 4-1.

The Boston Celtics will meet the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round of the NBA Playoffs. Here’s everything you need to know about the thrilling matchup.

The Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks tied their regular-season series at 2-2. The last time these two powerhouses went head-to-head in the NBA Playoffs, the Bucks triumphantly broke down the Celtics to win the series in five games during the 2019 semifinals.

Boston and Milwaukee have a substantial postseason history together, and now they’ll meet in the semi-finals once again, as they’re about to write another eventful chapter.

Boston’s confidence and execution on both ends of the floor seem to be growing each game. Led by first-year head coach Ime Udoka, the Celtics have a top-rated defense, dynamic rotation, versatile lineups, intelligent sets, and a proven superstar in Jayson Tatum.

Obviously, Milwaukee’s coming into this postseason with aspirations of defending their title, and they’ve constructed a similar roster to the team that reached the ultimate goal last year. Two-time MVP and reigning Finals MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to feast on opponents and looks hungrier than ever to lead the Bucks to a consecutive NBA Championship.

However, All-Star Khris Middleton is currently sidelined for the Bucks due to an MCL tear in his right knee and has reportedly been ruled out for the entire series. George Hill is also battling an abdominal injury, but he should return soon.

While the Bucks were consistent during the regular season, for the most part, the Celtics have had an absolute roller coaster of a season. Despite a struggle-filled start, Boston quickly shifted the momentum following the All-Star break.

To conclude the regular season, the Celtics won 28 of their last 35 games and inspiringly came together to earn the second seed in the East before eventually sweeping Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, and the Nets.

Udoka’s squad continues to roll at the right time, and evidently, they’re not afraid of anybody. With the Celtics currently hotter than fish grease, they’ll face their toughest challenge yet when they encounter the reigning champion Bucks.

Let’s look at the must-follow storylines from this upcoming Eastern Conference semi-final matchup between the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks that should be one of the more epic series in these NBA Playoffs.