5 reasons why Atlanta Hawks lost 102-113 against Milwaukee Bucks in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals | 2021 NBA Playoffs

#3 The Atlanta Hawks got dominated on the glass

Milwaukee Bucks vs Atlanta Hawks - Game Three

Rebounding is a huge part of the game, and the Milwaukee Bucks have taken full advantage yet again, thanks to the lengths of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez. The Atlanta Hawks' struggles on the glass continued as they got dominated on both the offensive and defensive boards.

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s last 8 playoff games: 33 PTS - 11 REB - 4 AST25 PTS - 9 REB - 6 AST34 PTS - 12 REB - 9 AST40 PTS - 13 REB - 5 AST30 PTS - 17 REB - 3 AST34 PTS - 12 REB - 4 AST34 PTS - 12 REB - 3 AST33 PTS - 14 REB - 2 AST Insane playoff run pic.twitter.com/SypmivVI0S

— NBA Central (@TheNBACentral) June 28, 2021

The Milwaukee Bucks had 50 rebounds in the game, 15 of which were offensive rebounds, while the Atlanta Hawks managed 35 total rebounds and nine in opposition territory. The Bucks also took full advantage of their offensive rebounds, resulting in 18 second-chance points.

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#4 The Atlanta Hawks' defense remained one step behind

Giannis Antetokounmpo (#34) of the Milwaukee Bucks is pressured by Onyeka Okongwu (#17) and John Collins (#20) of the Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks' defense has continued to struggle with the Milwaukee Bucks' pace in offense. If the Hawks hope to make things difficult for the Bucks, they will need to do a better job chasing down the ball.

Jrue Holiday was the recipient of long-range passes yet again, as he was often deep in opposition territory immediately after a defensive rebound. The Milwaukee Bucks registered 11 fast-break points, which was four more than the Atlanta Hawks'.

Both Bobby Portis Jr. and Jrue Holiday played exceptional defense tonight, and Giannis and Khris Middleton both scored 30+ apiece to give Milwaukee a 2-1 series lead over the fiesty #5 seed Atlanta Hawks. Game 4 is Tuesday at 8:30 pm ET on TNT#NBAPlayoffs #FearTheDeer #MILvsATL pic.twitter.com/eO7fczHLr4

— Isaac Goke (@IsaacGoke1) June 28, 2021

The Milwaukee Bucks have several quick players and are always looking to run on and off the ball. The Atlanta Hawks need to match the Bucks' work rate to stand a chance of making it past the Eastern Conference Finals.

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#5 The Milwaukee Bucks were more effective than the Atlanta Hawks

Jrue Holiday (#21) of the Milwaukee Bucks moves the ball against Bogdan Bogdanovic (#13) of the Atlanta Hawks

The Milwaukee Bucks were methodical with their shooting, as they made sure to only take shots that were good looks. That served them well, as they were patient and moved the ball around until they found an open man.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Hawks took their shots hastily and denied themselves the opportunity to stay in control. They attempted a lot more 3-point shots instead of seeking high percentage looks to maintain their hold on the game. The Milwaukee Bucks knew that the 3-point shots were not falling for them, so they switched tactics.

The Bucks shot 51.1% (45/88) from the field, while the Hawks went 39/84 (46.4%). The difference in efficiency was glaring, which is one of the reasons why the Hawks lost the game.