The Bucks have become a potential playoff opponent for the Pistons and it's bringing up past trauma for Detroit fans. But, even if the Bucks are able to fight their way through the Play-In Tournament for a shot against the East's top seed, it shouldn't scare Pistons fans in the slightest.
We haven't seen anything consistent from Milwaukee all season long to think they can challenge one of the league's best teams in a playoff series. Yes, the Bucks can theoretically improve more from their regular season performance more than the Pistons can if they improve their focus and intensity. But their track record of coaching and recent playoff performances leaves that possibility seriously in doubt.
The Bucks have not looked like a playoff threat this season at all
One common argument made in favor of the Bucks' playoff threat is the dominance of superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Part of the Bucks' struggles this season has been Giannis' injury woes. He's missed 28 out of 58 games this season, and the Bucks are just 11-17 without him. But often lost in the discourse is the Bucks' 15-15 record with him too.
Regardless of Giannis' availability, the Bucks have not been a dangerous team. They may look unstoppable for brief stretches with Giannis, but often fall apart the instant he leaves the court. If the Pistons bring their trademark defensive intensity and hustle to a playoff series, it should end quickly for the Bucks.
But there is some recent concern that the Pistons could slip in effort against a team they perceive as inferior. It's a problem that has plagued them recently against injured versions of top teams, but one that hopefully won't translate to the playoffs. For a franchise that hasn't won a playoff series in 18 years, there should be absolutely no arrogance going into the postseason.
Assuming the Pistons bring anything close to their usual effort, the Bucks shouldn't stand a chance. They've been thoroughly dismantled in the first round of the last two playoffs when they had a stronger roster including All-Star Damian Lillard. Both series ended with loss to the Pacers.
From my perspective, there is nothing scary about the Bucks as a potential playoff foe. The name recognition of Giannis alone can't make up for the obvious flaws across the roster and the terrible coaching from Doc Rivers. Even Giannis himself hasn't won a playoff series since 2022.
The Bucks have bigger problems that can't be fixed by the playoffs. They don't have serious hopes of making a deep playoff run, and for good reason. Let's not forget that they are currently the 11th seed in the East, not even eligible for a Play-In spot. It'll take a lot of luck just to sneak into any postseason action as a 10th seed, let alone potentially upset the Pistons.