In 2021, the second round of the Eastern Conference NBA playoffs included a series that was dubbed “the real NBA Finals.” Just a year later we again find ourselves in a similar place, as the Milwaukee Bucks (last year’s reigning champions) face off against the Boston Celtics (a late-charging Finals favorite). This matchup figures to be one of the most competitive in the playoffs thus far, though a major factor on Milwaukee’s side is already limited by injury. The major difference this time around is that the Bucks already once achieved their ultimate goal – winning the title – while these Boston Celtics are still trying to break through and get to the final round with their current group.