5 things to watch on the NBA’s MLK Day slate

4. A quality Eastern Conference clash

The Eastern Conference may not be quite as weak as many of us thought heading into the season, and NBA fans will be treated to a matchup between two good Eastern Conference teams on MLK Day when the Milwaukee Bucks travel to the nation’s capital to play the Washington Wizards. Milwaukee made their playoff intentions clear earlier this season when they landed talented point guard Eric Bledsoe via trade with the Phoenix Suns. It’s apparent that the ascension of Giannis Antetokounmpo to MVP candidate status has this organization looking to win now, and who can blame them?

Both Milwaukee and Washington look like good bets to reach the postseason this year, and these clubs certainly have their fair share of star power. Washington boasts one of the more dynamic backcourt duos in the league in John Wall and Bradley Beal, and Milwaukee will have to contain these two players if they hope to leave DC with a victory. Milwaukee continues to struggle defensively despite adding Bledsoe, which has helped stoke rumors of the Bucks going after Clippers center DeAndre Jordan.

The good news for Milwaukee is that Giannis is capable of essentially winning games on his own when he’s performing at his highest level. The Greek Freak has been nothing short of awe-inspiring as he continues to improve his versatile game. Wizards forward Otto Porter will likely draw much of the defensive responsibility when it comes to Giannis, though every Washington player on the court should have one eye on the Milwaukee superstar at all times.