Bucks' Playoff Hopes Dim as Giannis Returns

0:00On this March 4th, here's what's making headlines for the NBA. Giannis and Ante Toe, K-O-O-N, Boe made his return Monday night after sitting out 15 straight games. The Milwaukee Bucks hoped for a boost, but they fell hard to the Boston Celtics at home by 27 points, even without Jalen Brown on the court. That loss left them at 26 wins and 34 losses, sitting 11th in the east and three and a half games behind Charlotte for the final play-in spot. The numbers pay in a clear picture of their struggles. Milwaukee ranks 23rd in offensive rating and 24th in defense, putting them in lottery team territory rather than contender status. Right now, with the 10th worst record league wide, they hold about a 13.9% shot at a top four draft pick and 3% odds, for the number one overall selection. Fans and team insiders are starting to question the playoff chase. Even if the Bucks clawed into the play-in and grabbed the aveseed, they'd likely face a tough Detroit Piston squad led by Cade Cunningham,

1:02who's playing at an MVP level. That match up spells a quick first round exit at best. Meanwhile, roster limits make rebuilding tricky. Damian Lillard's deal carries $22 million in dead money each year for the next four seasons, tying up flexibility. With few future draft picks available, landing a high selection in this promising class could add a star next to Giannis. According to analysts, the smart play might be easing off the gas down the stretch. Prioritizing draft position over a slim playoff shot, could set up a much stronger long-term run around their superstar. The Daily News Now is grateful to our sponsor for today's episode. It is a pillow that plays your podcast and music without earbuds, built for listening in bed, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.