Author: Matt Velazquez, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The Bucks have used their bench more during the postseasonthan any of the remaining teams in the playoffs, and the players have been productive.

Giannis Antetokounmpo poured in 41 points as the Bucks closed out the Pistons with one last rout for their first series victory in 18 years.

On a rare frustrating night for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks flexed their depth to cruise past the Pistons again for a commanding 3-0 series lead.

The veteran guard made numerous big plays, particularly in the fourth quarter, and finished with a game-high 27 points in Milwaukee’s 120-99 win.

The first-year Bucks coach has changed the team’s culture with encouragement, honesty and a healthy – if unexpected – reliance on surprise and fun.

Giannis Antetokounmpo turned in an MVP performance and out-dueled Joel Embiid as the Bucks surged past the Sixers late to clinch the best record.

A game of dodgeball broke out between the Bucks and 76ers, with Joel Embiid getting a technical foul and Eric Bledsoe getting two and ejected.

All eyes were on Giannis Antetokounmpo and James Harden, but the Bucks’ Eric Bledsoe stole the show in Milwaukee’s series-sweeping win.

An informal straw poll of 25 media members finds the race between Giannis Antetokounmpo and James Harden could still be decided in the last two weeks.

After the All-Star Game last month, LeBron told Giannis, “I love everything about you, man.” The Greek Freek is poised to seize the King’s throne.