With the semis now concluded, the NBA Cup Final is set. The Milwaukee Bucks and Oklahoma City Thunder will be entertaining basketball fans, and two of the league's best superstars would be looking to put on a show and light up Las Vegas.
Giannis vs. Shai: Who Comes Out On Top?
The upcoming NBA Cup final promises a matchup between two MVP-caliber players who have been spectacular this season. Giannis Antetokounmpo has been scorching hot, delivering a monster performance in the NBA Cup semifinal against the Atlanta Hawks. Antetokounmpo ended the game posting an impressive 32 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, and four blocks on efficient shooting.
On the other hand, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been equally impressive. He led the Thunder with a game-high 32 points in their semifinal victory over the Houston Rockets. Shai's offensive ability has been a defining characteristic of the Thunder's form this season. He had a clutch performance, including a crucial stretch where he scored six immediate points and drew a key foul. The 26-year-old demonstrated why he's put in conversations as one of the most exciting young players in the NBA.
Team Dynamics Driving into the Final
Both teams have taken pretty interesting paths to the NBA Cup final. The Bucks had a slow start to the season, but seem to have found their groove, winning 12 of their last 15 games.
The addition of Damian Lillard really strengthened what they could do offensively, with the Antetokounmpo-Lillard duo combining for an average of nearly 60 points per game. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder have been a revelation, sitting atop the Western Conference with a strong 20-5 record.
What to Expect in the Final
The NBA Cup final looks difficult to predict, as both teams boast exceptional defensive credentials, with Oklahoma City ranking as the top defensive team in the league. Sure, the Bucks have some offensive rhythm with Giannis and Lillard's scary scoring abilities, but it won't be so easy. The Thunder know how to disrupt such rhythm and are good at forcing turnovers from their opponents.
Key players beyond the superstars will also play crucial roles in how the game would go. For the Bucks, supporting cast members like Bobby Portis and Brook Lopez could be a decider if they show up and perform. For the Thunder, they may rely on emerging talents like Jalen Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein to provide the necessary support for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Wrapping Up
The Bucks-Thunder NBA Cup final will take place Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. ET in Las Vegas, and will be broadcasting on ABC. Whoever comes out on top could be sending a message that they are true contenders in their respective conferences this season. What do you think? Will Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks win it or will Shai Gilgeous-Alexander push Oklahoma City for the win?