The Milwuakee Bucks know subtle uniform redesigns are usually a great way to kick off a new NBA season. So they decided to pay homage to both their glory days and their sharpest-shooting lefty by changing accent colors from purple to Red(d). It's a nice look, and I don't think at all a coincidence.

After getting his feet wet his first 2 seasons, Michael Redd has improved his scoring from 15.1 to 21.7 to 23.0 to last season's 25.4. The Bucks (and Papertown Shakes) are hoping this upward trend continues since their scoring prowess is limited, with the possible exception of newly acquired Charlie Villanueva. The Bucks may take a slight step forward defensively thanks to the addition of Ruben Patterson, but I just don't see a roster dynamic enough to improve in the hotly contested Central division. After being the only team in the NBA last year to make the playoffs despite a losing record, look for the Bucks to stop short of this postseason.

Central Division Forecast

1. Chicago Bulls
2. Detroit Pistons
3. Cleveland Cavaliers
4. Indiana Pacers
5. Milwuakee Bucks

Note about the Bucks web site: Don't fall for the free tee-shirt gimmick like I did. You'll only receive a voucher to exchange for a shirt at a Bucks game.

Labels: NBA, rank and file