The Milwaukee Bucks are on a tear. Even without their two biggest stars, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, the Bucks dug deep and found a way to win their sixth consecutive game on Monday night, defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 113-106.
Antetokounmpo, the reigning NBA Finals MVP and two-time MVP, sat out with left Achilles tendinitis. This marked only his third missed game of the season. Khris Middleton, a three-time All-Star, has been sidelined for eleven straight games with a sprained left ankle.
The Bucks’ hot streak comes after a tumultuous start under new head coach Doc Rivers. Entering the All-Star break, Milwaukee sputtered to a 3-7 record under Rivers. However, since the break, they’ve flipped the script, showcasing their resilience and depth.
Lillard Takes Charge
In the absence of their usual offensive leaders, Damian Lillard stepped up in a big way. The veteran point guard, acquired by the Bucks in a blockbuster trade deadline deal, exploded for a game-high 41 points. Lillard was on fire all night, knocking down clutch shots and keeping the Bucks in the game when they trailed by as many as 13 points in the third quarter.
“I think it just shows who we’re becoming,” Lillard said after the game. “We’ve got guys who can step up and make big plays, even when Giannis and Khris aren’t on the floor.”
Fourth-Quarter Flourish
The Bucks entered the fourth quarter trailing by two points. Bobby Portis, another key contributor to the win, came alive in the final frame. Portis scored 14 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter and grabbed a season-high 16 rebounds.
With 4:33 remaining in the game and the score tied, veteran guard Patrick Beverley drilled a crucial three-pointer to give the Bucks the lead for good. Jrue Holiday, another offseason acquisition, played a well-rounded game, finishing with 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Despite missing key players themselves, the Clippers put up a valiant effort. Paul George and Kawhi Leonard combined for 45 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Bucks’ late surge. James Harden, another newcomer for the Clippers, chipped in with 29 points but struggled with his efficiency, shooting only 9-for-24 from the field.
Bucks Finding Identity Under Rivers
The win over the Clippers is a significant sign of progress for the Bucks under Coach Rivers. Early in the season, there were questions about how Rivers’ coaching style would mesh with the Bucks’ personnel. However, the team seems to be adjusting, embracing a more team-oriented approach to offence and a renewed focus on defence.
“We’re starting to understand each other better,” Coach Rivers said. “We’re figuring out how to play together, and that’s encouraging. We’re not there yet, but we’re definitely moving in the right direction.”
The win over the Clippers sends the Bucks on a four-game road trip to California. They’ll face the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday before a rematch with the Clippers on Sunday. With Antetokounmpo’s status uncertain, the upcoming games will be a further test of the Bucks’ depth and their ability to maintain their winning ways.
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