5 reasons why Brooklyn Nets lost against Milwaukee Bucks in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals | 2021 NBA Playoffs

#3 The Milwaukee Bucks bench outclassed the Brooklyn Nets'

Landry Shamet (#20) of the Brooklyn Nets

Overreliance on their starting lineup hurt the Brooklyn Nets in this series. That was evident in Game 7 against the Milwaukee Bucks as the Nets bowed out of the 2021 NBA playoffs. Although the Nets' bench had limited minutes, they failed to make any significant contribution when they were called upon.

Jeff Green and Landry Shamet played for a combined 20 minutes but registered no points in the game. Kevin Durant and James Harden both played for 53 minutes apiece, despite Harden nursing a hamstring strain. Although Durant recorded another heroic performance for the Brooklyn Nets, his supporting cast did not match his intensity, as most of them looked fagged out.

The Milwaukee Bucks' bench also had limited time, with only three players given a chance. However, they combined for nine points and five rebounds.

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#4 The Brooklyn Nets could not contain Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo kept the Milwaukee Bucks alive in Game 7, and his aggressive play played a huge role in his team's win. His speed, strength and length posed a serious challenge for the Brooklyn Nets.

Giannis Antetokounmpo tonight:40 Points13 Rebounds5 Assists 62% FGGIVE GIANNIS HIS RESPECT. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LUEKaO3lIq

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 20, 2021

Antetokounmpo recorded 40 points despite looking exasperated early in the game. In a post-game comment, he concurred that it was one of the most exhausting series he has featured in.

Nevertheless, he stayed efficient with a 0.625 field goal percentage. Surprisingly, he shot as good as Joe Harris in the game, ending with 33% from the 3-point range.

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#5 James Harden failed to redeem himself in the playoffs

James Harden (#13) of the Brooklyn Nets

James Harden has come under scrutiny for years because he tends to lose his range in the NBA playoffs. He showed the same ineffectiveness against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 7, as the bulk of his points came from the free-throw line.

Harden attempted 12 3-point shots but only converted two. Although the argument could be made that he is still recovering from his hamstring strain, Harden's poor shooting hurt the Brooklyn Nets in the pivotal Game 7 against the Milwaukee Bucks.

James Harden in career Game 7’s (5 games):• 23.8 PPG• 5.8 RPG• 7 APG• 4.8 TOV/G• 37% FG%• 14.2% 3P%Some tough game’s from Harden💔 pic.twitter.com/43ucj64y4Z

— 𝘬𝘪𝘥𝘥 ⁵ (ifb) (temporary clippers fan) (@nbatrend) June 20, 2021

One area where he performed superbly was in creating open looks for his teammates. He finished the game with 22 points, nine assists and nine rebounds while also putting in a decent shift in defense. He was also great in drawing contact, converting all ten attempts at the charity stripe.