NBA 2018-19: 3 Talking points from Boston Celtics vs Milwaukee Bucks

#1 Milwaukee Bucks' All-Stars continue to shine

Khris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo

The All-Star duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton seemed unstoppable even against the terrific defense from the Celtics. While Horford and Morris stuck to control Giannis' movements on the offense possession after possession till the end, Smart and Irving took to control Middleton.

Middleton struggled while shooting the ball but was efficient on the defensive end and making plays for his fellow teammates. He finished with a double-double- 15 points, 13 rebounds, 4 assists and 1 steal in 31 minutes of play. He made Milwaukee's biggest 3-pointer, hitting from out front to make it 98-95 with 32.5 seconds remaining.

A total of 30 points by the MVP candidate didn't come easy and he showed his consistency going 11-of-19 from the field.

"It was a good game," Giannis said afterwards in the Bucks' locker room. "We didn't play our best basketball, but they're a really dangerous team. If we see them in the playoffs, I know we're up 2-1 right now [in the season series], but we gotta take Boston really serious, because they play for 48 minutes. They don't stop playing. They move the ball real well, they get in their spots and execute the game-plan so well. They're a dangerous team."

The Bucks who stand as the best team in the East have added assets over the year to make a deep playoff run. They face threat from the upgraded Raptors and 76ers. The Celtics would make a final run to a more respected playoff spot. Now that the LeBron James era in the East is over, East will forward for a new reign and it will be interesting as the remaining season unfolds.