MILWAUKEE – The Boston Celtics may see a blast from their not-so-distant past in ex-Celtic Tyler Zeller, who is expected to be in the Milwaukee Bucks’ starting lineup for tonight’s Game 3 matchup against Boston.
Zeller, who has averaged 1.0 points and 1.0 rebounds in the first two games of this best-of-seven playoff series, would potentially replace John Henson (back) who will not play tonight.
Milwaukee interim head coach Joe Prunty declined to say who would replace Henson, although it is expected to be Zeller or Thon Maker.
While Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton have been Milwaukee’s top performers, the loss of Henson will surely be felt.
The 6-foot-11 Henson has been one of the more consistent performers for Milwaukee outside of Antetokounmpo and Middleton, averaging 9.5 points, 6.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists while shooting 69.2 percent from the field.
With Boston holding a commanding 2-0 series lead, look for the Bucks to play with a greater sense of urgency which in all likelihood will lead to a more physical game.
“That’s just the playoffs,” Zeller said. “It’s not like the regular season, some nights are, some nights aren’t (physical); be ready to go every night. Be ready. You know they’re going to push and shove, and we can also do the same.”
Boston Celtics
Moving up in the player rotation off the bench for the Bucks will be Thon Maker. In addition, there’s a good chance we’ll see Antetokounmpo spend more time at the center position than usual.