But close almost counts in horseshoes? All NBA fans can agree, however, that Sunday’s double OT thriller was far more entertaining than any horseshoe. Admittedly, it’s easy to frustrate one’s self with what-ifs over the final 12 minutes. But George Hill‘s game-high 24 points over 37 minutes proves he is a vital contributor in Milwaukee’s effort to finish Toronto.
Hill’s Heroic OT Effort
Hill was nearly an afterthought in a salary-dump trade earlier this season. But the only objects that he dumps over the desperate Raptors are cauldrons of agony. In game three, Hill tied the game with a trey with 2:52 in regulation, tied it again with a three with 2:43 remaining in overtime, and tied it a third time with a rebound, drawn foul, and two free throws at the close of overtime.
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The OT three was especially impressive because of his game situation awareness after Giannis’s rare missed free throw.
Unfortunately, controversial officiating led to a Giannis DQ and a Bucks loss. But an only slightly subdued Hill kept a reasonable perspective. He observed of the starters’ shooting, “it’s just one of those games where they didn’t make them today…we’re not worried about it, we know they’re going to come to play next game.”
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But perhaps Hill should start over a struggling Eric Bledsoe considering his playoff success. Even professional statisticians appreciate his ascendance. (Note: true shooting percentage covers all shots, including free throws).
George Hill Continues to Climb
Some experts argue the Raptors are back in the series. Really. Well, when the Bucks win Tuesday, they’ll have a 3-1 lead. True, there were those two 3-1 east finals comebacks to worry about – from 1979 and 1981. Looking too far ahead? If George Hill continues his remarkable play for a much deeper Bucks squad, the view to Oakland will be clear. The legibility of the Warriors’ shredded parade route won’t be.
