In this week's 10 things, we highlight trends at the top of the East, two MVP favorites, a true-blue superstar in Oklahoma City, a rising top pick and much more.
1. When Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks get it moving -- early
The Indiana Pacers somehow blew out Milwaukee Thursday, but the most important general trend lines are pointing up. The Bucks are in a virtual tie for fifth in points per possession since Feb. 1. Their half-court offense ranks No. 4 in that stretch, per Cleaning The Glass.
We know Milwaukee's defense is impenetrable around the basket; it's probably the league's best defense at full throttle, though the Cleveland Cavaliers have a case.