The Indiana Pacers, by eliminating the Milwaukee Bucks, are expected to have toppled what was once the best team in the NBA.

Starting the trade machine for Giannis Antetokounmpo didn't take long, but making a deal isn't the only answer for Milwaukee.

The Rockets find themselves on the cusp of championship contention. Their disruptive, dominant defense is camera-ready for basketball's biggest stage. Their competitive fire and the fight instilled under head coach Ime Udoka can keep sturdy legs beneath them through the final rounds of a heavyweight brawl.