Indiana vs Milwaukee
The Indiana Pacers surprised many in the NBA's In-Season Tournament, excelling with a dominant offense but struggling defensively. Leading in multiple scoring categories, their swift pace and acquisitions like Bruce Brown and Obi Toppin bolstered a previously thinner roster. Tyrese Haliburton shone as an offensive force, yet defensive issues persist, ranking last in points allowed and struggling in defensive rating.
Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks, anchored by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, hit their stride after a slower start. They've won 10 of 12 games, displaying prowess in offense but also facing defensive challenges, conceding points and lacking transition defense. Despite this, their more balanced defense outperforms the Pacers', even though both teams favor a fast-paced offensive style. In a previous meeting, the Pacers edged the Bucks 126-124, but since then, Milwaukee's shown improvement in defensive ratings and offensive output.
It is hard to ignore just how great the Pacers have been scoring the ball this season. In that same breath, however, it is also hard to forget just how brutal the defense has been.
Milwaukee also has a high-scoring offense and a weak defense, but the difference between the two defenses is stark. While Indiana ranks first in three-point attempts allowed and made three-pointers, the Bucks are taking 37 threes per game, ranking sixth in team three-point shooting percentage.
Even though the Pacers got the best of Milwaukee earlier this season, the Bucks are continuing to improve on both ends, while Indiana is only getting better at scoring the ball. With two great offenses and suspect defenses, this game has all the makings of a very entertaining shootout.
New Orleans vs Los Angeles
The New Orleans Pelicans bounced back impressively after an initial loss, winning four straight games in the In-Season Tournament by substantial margins. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram's dominance, coupled with CJ McCollum's return, fueled their offensive prowess. However, defensive concerns persist as they face a well-rounded Lakers team, particularly in defending the paint against the Lakers' strong interior game.
Facing the Lakers, who benefited from a controversial call in the quarterfinals, New Orleans aims to limit fastbreak opportunities by controlling the pace. While the Pelicans possess offensive strength, injuries to Larry Nance Jr. and Matt Ryan may hinder their defense against the Lakers' aggressive inside play.
The Lakers, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis, enter the semifinals undefeated in the tournament. Both stars have been instrumental, with Davis shining in recent games. Despite inconsistencies, the Lakers' depth and talent present a formidable challenge to the Pelicans' hot streak, making this semifinal matchup highly competitive.
It is hard to bet against a LeBron-led team in a tournament-style setting, but the Pelicans are an exciting team to back in this spot.
Offensively, New Orleans has a lot more firepower, and they have been slightly better defensively. While the Lakers are playing some great basketball right now, the Pelicans’ defense does an excellent job at limiting transition points.
They do this by paying with one of the slower paces in the NBA, which should cause problems for Los Angeles. The Lakers do not shoot the ball all that well, which will be a problem, seeing how New Orleans will look to limit their possessions.
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