Teamwork pays off for Bucks

After watching the Philadelphia 76ers acquire center Dikembe Mutombo last week, most analysts and fans have given them the Eastern Conference title. But before the Sixers can waltz with the West, they will have to stop and dance in Milwaukee.\nIf any division leader can be a sleeper, it is the Bucks. But they are no fluke. The reason this team has succeeded early on, and could march into the NBA Finals, is because it is a team in every sense of the word. It has a chemistry that is envied nowadays. \n The players have shown patience with and displayed support for coach George Karl. The meat of the team (with exception to Lindsay Hunter) has been in town since the 1998-99 season, Karl's first. Former No. 1 pick Glenn Robinson has been with the team since 1994. He could have grown tired of the team's losing ways and lack of direction, but he has stayed dedicated.\nRay Allen also has been patient. This guard is an excellent shooter (he won this year's long distance shootout) and a clutch performer. He is one of the league's most under-rated players, and could have distracted the team with demands for a high contract, or to be traded to a contender. \nAnd let's not forget Sam Cassell. The league's biggest yapper is still around -- and that is music to Milwaukee's ears. \nBut the reason this team will continue to surprise opponents is the fact that they're missing something -- a single leader. There is no go-to guy at the end of the game. No one can be described as "the heart and soul of this team." That is because everyone has sacrificed that title for the sake of the team. The players are unified and confident in each other, and all steering toward a common goal.\nLook no further than Milwaukee's focus. When was the last time a Buck was in the news for getting into trouble with the law? These guys want to win, and nothing will stop them. Like Philadelphia, the team's biggest opponent for the East crown, it has been eliminated from each of the past two postseasons by the Indiana Pacers. But while the 76ers broke down against the Pacers and reduced themselves to childish attempts to injure Reggie Miller, the Bucks displayed a bit more class. After Travis Best stuck a dagger in them at the end of Game 5 of last year's first round playoff series, they did not hang their heads -- they got to work.\nThat element is magnified during the playoffs. Maybe the 76ers are more talented. Maybe they are bigger and stronger, and maybe they are more popular. But the Bucks have what it takes to win games they are not supposed to win. They have the drive, ability and focus to stay close. They possess the leadership to get them over the top.\nPhiladelphia picked up Mutombo to be competitive against the West, but it needs more than talent to win in the playoffs. That is why the Bucks will prevail.