Bucks Diary: Up the Power Rankings

Bucks C Magliore Wrestles with Zo Mourning

After a successful opening week in which the team went 3-0 against three legitimate play-off contenders (two on the road) the Milwaukee Bucks soared up ESPN.com's "Power Rankings", from 13 to get this... 5! Could you imagine the Bucks at No. 5 in any such poll just one month ago? Of course, these polls tend to be the "Who's Hot, Who's Not" lists of sports journalism, but for now at least the Bucks are getting some love. Word to the wise, however: I don't think the Bucks are at this point the fifth best team in the Association.

Redd Can D it Up

Some have suggested Michael Redd is not interested in defense. I always believed this was not true. He has always struck me as at least a serviceable defender, dating back to his days as a reserve under George Karl. Saturday he showed what he is capable of doing. He played some very impressive defense against the difficult Heat G Dwayne Wade, holding the young superstar to 21 points on only 6 of 17 shooting. His effort was a key to the Bucks victory. By the way he still got his, scoring 23 points on the other end. Michael thus far is earning his money.

Bogut's Legs Looked a Little Heavy

Rookie C Andrew Bogut has had an encouraging opening week. On Saturday however I thought his legs looked a little tired at times. He had a hard time getting his base in the low post against Heat F Antoine Walker, though he did back him down, shoot over him, and then retrieve his own miss and put it in. I'm simply glad at this point that GM Harris had the foresight to bring in Jamaal Magliore so that Bogut didn't have to start his professional career going it alone in the paint. He did a nice job against Heat C Alonzo Mourning when he had to defense him, but I shudder to think of him having to bang with the big man all by himself all night long.

How Long Can G Mo Williams Keep this Up?

Mo Williams was terrific again on in Saturday's home opener. He's really dialed in at this point. I wonder how long he can keep up this kind of incredible shooting. Perhaps coming off the bench keeps his legs strong and fresh, aiding his jumper. He's been a refreshing surprise in a week of refreshing surprises.