Milwaukee comes alive in the fourth to snag the victory
In their first game action since the All-Star break, the Milwaukee Bucks handled business against the Los Angeles Clippers at home, 116-110.
Read our full summary of the game here and catch a six-minute audio recap on the Bucks+ podcast Bucks In Six Minutes below.
What Did We Learn?
The Bucks were able to get the job done in the fourth. Doc Rivers attributed things to the defense and Milwaukee’s ability to utilize their length. They were able to contest a majority of the Clippers’ shots throughout the final minutes, clearly disrupting them on nearly all their attempts. That type of closeout in a game was something that should be greatly appreciated, especially given the news with Bobby Portis’ suspension. When the Bucks could’ve crumbled, they instead banded together and got the job done.
Three Observations
Turnovers nearly killed the Bucks but they settled down.
Throughout the third, Milwaukee kept coughing up the basketball. It allowed Los Angeles to commandeer control of the game and take advantage of the Bucks’ sloppiness. However, they were able to button things up in the fourth and maintain solid possessions throughout the final period. It helped them not just take the lead but hold onto it, as numerous clutch shots fell through as regulation melted away. Postgame, Doc highlighted the fact that they were able to begin moving the ball, which seemed to alleviate the inconsistency on the offensive end.
Damian Lillard came alive in the fourth.
Early on, Dame was ice cold. He was unable to generate much of anything on the offensive side of the ball. However, he flipped a switch in the fourth. He’d end up finishing 2-of-12 from the floor with just a pair of threes, but was able to work his way up to 15 points to close it out. In his postgame, Doc mentioned how that’s what separates an average player vs. a special player and that’s what makes him so amazing. I expect Lillard continue to continue the momentum and feature a strong game against Miami on Sunday.
Jericho Sims stepped up.
Sure, he didn’t score any points, but that’s not what the Bucks needed him for. In 17 minutes played, Sims’ stats went beyond the box score. Following Portis’ suspension, Milwaukee will begin relying on him to fill out some big minutes — and big was how Doc categorized his contributions by being able to leverage his size. As the rest of the season continues on, Rivers and the Bucks will continue to count on Sims to be able to offer contributions as Portis will be away from the team.
Bonus Bucks Bits
- This was the first game that the Bucks were without Bobby Portis, as he was suspended this morning for 25 games for breaking the league’s drug policy. Pre-game, Doc Rivers addressed the situation with reporters. He mentioned how he knows it was an honest mistake by Portis and that he’s not a drug user. He discussed how the team will miss his leadership in practice. He definitely didn’t shy away from how big of a hit this will be for the team.
- Damian Lillard also spoke about the importance that BP brings to the team and, like Doc, mentioned how it’ll be a big hit for the team. He then also mentioned how everyone is professionals and they know they’ll need to hold things down throughout his absence.
- Giannis made his return to the court in this one and faced a minutes restriction (six minutes per quarter). Despite the low minutes, he led the team in scoring with 23 points while also snatching eight boards.
- Brook also had a nice outing rebound-wise, snagging seven of them on the night. That matches the third-most he has had in a game this season.
- For those wondering, there was no video tribute for MarJon Beauchamp. The Bucks did give him a warm welcome by putting him on the jumbotron, though.
- Ivica Zubac was an absolute beast for Los Angeles. He posted a 20 point and 15 rebound performance. It’s fun to watch what he’s able to do out on the court.
- KPJ had a solid outing, tallying 13 points off the bench on 5-of-7 shooting. Those types of contributions will serve the Bucks well moving forward.
- Last, there was a legendary performance in Money Ball. A fan racked up $800 at the free throw line. He then buried the 3-pointer to double up and walk away with $1,600. Well done, sir.
Up Next
The Bucks are now on a SEGABABA as they head to Washington D.C. to take on their old friend Khris Middleton and the Wizards. You can catch the action at 6 p.m. CST on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin or stream it on our Playback and YouTube channels.
Support our site! | BreakingT | ESPN+ | ESPN+ 30 For 30 | fuboTV | Disney+