Bobby Portis has been a real difference-maker for the Bucks in this series

In their previous series against the Brooklyn Nets, the Bucks did not really turn to their bench much, as they relied heavily on Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton to get them past Kevin Durant. Brook Lopez also played a huge role for the Bucks in that series in what was a “revenge” type of game for him. 

In this series against Atlanta however, the Bucks have turned to their bench and have received a ton of production from Bobby Portis. He played sporadically against the Nets in the Eastern Conference Semifinals, but has played a “sixth-man” type of role for the Bucks in this series against the Hawks. 

In about 16.7 minutes per game this series, Portis is averaging 11.3 points, 5.0 rebounds and is shooting 55.6% from the floor. Every time he has come into the game for the Bucks, he has been instant production and has played with heart. He is almost like an “energizer” for Milwaukee and has played his role perfectly. 

Being a physical presence in the paint defensively as well, Bobby Portis has been able to keep guys like John Collins and Clint Capela in check as well when he has entered the game for the Bucks. Not only does this take an enormous amount of pressure off of their starters, but this also gives guys like Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez time to rest on the bench. 

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Fatigue was starting to get the Bucks in their previous series against the Nets, but now, they look much more energized, hence why they were able to create a major fourth quarter comeback in Game 3.

The Hawks have no answer for Portis right now and they almost have to accept the fact that he is playing well because if they focus any attention on him, guys like Holiday, Antetokounmpo and Middleton will be able to attack every single possession. 

Atlanta finds themselves in a very tough spot right now because of the contributions of Bobby Portis for the Bucks and if Milwaukee is to advance to the NBA Finals, then Portis will have played a big role in them getting there.