Long twinned with the Milwaukee Bucks as two franchises clawing their own ways out of stultifying mediocrity through accumulation of promising talent, that both teams have reached the apex of their status as contenders within the same window only adds to the rivalry’s zest. Each team lays claim to a sport-altering superstar, each demands acknowledgement of their prowess, and each harbors as-yet unfulfilled desires to bring their respective redemptive arcs to the most satisfying conclusion of all: With a championship.
I could sit here and tell you that this game is Very Important because Philadelphia has one of the most physically imposing rosters in the league and present a unique puzzle for Milwaukee’s offense to solve.