NBA 2018-19: Eastern Conference Power Rankings (Week 2)

#2 Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis guarded by Magic's Jonathan Isaac

Despite them being the only unbeaten team in the Association, we cannot crown the Bucks with the #1 spot yet. But that doesn't mean I can't wax lyrical about their virtues this season, of which there are many.

For one, the impact of Mike Budenholzer is clearest on the defensive side of things. The Bucks are no longer bleeding corner 3s like they did last season. Playing Brook Lopez as the starter has helped Giannis' rebounding numbers immensely, on account of the UCLA big man's excellent boxing out. The Bucks are also attempting more 3-pointers than ever, and knocking them down at a more-than-passable rate right now.

They legitimately look a spooky threat to emerge from the Conference if Giannis continues to play like this and their bench continues to impress as it has thus far.