Milwaukee Bucks vs Atlanta Hawks: 5 things we've learned from the first 4 games of the Eastern Conference Finals | 2021 NBA Finals

#3 The Atlanta Hawks can secure victories without Trae Young

Atlanta Hawks' Lou Williams

Trae Young has been the standout performer for the Atlanta Hawks in the 2021 NBA playoffs and has continued to shine against the Milwaukee Bucks.

Since Round 1 Game 1, he has shown incredible poise, rallying the Hawks to several gritty wins. Rooting for the Atlanta Hawks to overcome the Milwaukee Bucks without their youngster will be near impossible, or at least that's what most will think.

The Atlanta Hawks introduced veteran guard Lou Williams to the starting lineup after Young was unable to suit up for his team in Game 4. Although he stayed on in Game 3 after tripping on a referee, Young was ruled out of Game 4 due to a right foot bone bruise.

Lou Williams tonight:21 Points8 Assists 5 Rebounds 77% FGStepped up big with no Trae. 💯🔥 pic.twitter.com/h4tBnCyikC

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) June 30, 2021

In his absence, the Atlanta Hawks managed a wire-to-wire win over the Milwaukee Bucks. Although Antetokounmpo was in the game before sustaining a knee injury in the second half, the Bucks were held to their lowest scoring half in the 2021 NBA playoffs, registering only 38 points in the first half.

Lou, Bogdan Bogdanovic, Clint Capela and Cam Reddish were all inspirational in the 110-88 victory against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4. While Young is being sorely missed, the Atlanta Hawks have shown that they can continue to deliver even when he is not on the court.

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#4 The Milwaukee Bucks will most likely play the rest of the series without Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis Antetokounmpo (#34) of the Milwaukee Bucks

Giannis Antetokounmpo is an integral part of the Milwaukee Bucks, as he is dependable in both offense and defense. With contributions from Khris Middleton and Holiday, Antetokounmpo has led the Bucks to their deepest run in the NBA playoffs in a while

But the Milwaukee Bucks might have to face the Atlanta Hawks for the remainder of this series without the two-time MVP. For the Bucks to go through, Middleton and Holiday have to step up.

The Milwaukee Bucks forward sustained his injury following an awkward landing after going for a rebound against Clint Capela. He stayed down for a while before limping to the locker room with help from his brother.

Official: Giannis Antetokounmpo is out tonight. https://t.co/fDU7qPKYeV

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 1, 2021

Official reports have revealed that Antetokounmpo has a left knee extension, which was a relief, as it looked worse. Although listed as doubtful for Game 5, his status was changed to 'out' a few hours before tip-off. With only three games to play in the series, it is unclear if he will be fit to play if there is a Game 7.

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#5 The Atlanta Hawks' youngsters have held their ground against the more experienced Milwaukee Bucks

Kevin Huerter (#3) of the Atlanta Hawks shoots against Pat Connaughton (#24) of the Milwaukee Bucks

The Atlanta Hawks have given the Milwaukee Bucks a run for their money this series despite having several playoff debutants in their roster. They have handled the pressure well and have surpassed expectations.

The Milwaukee Bucks have tried to assert their dominance on several occasions, registering two emphatic victories. However, the young Atlanta Hawks team has shown resolve and composure to stay in the series.

While the series is still up for the taking, nothing will be left to chance as teams that have underrated the Atlanta Hawks in the past have been left disappointed. Whoever advances to the NBA Finals will square up against the Chris Paul-led Phoenix Suns.