For this reception of the Magic, the Bucks presented themselves without Giannis Antetokounmpo, affected against Boston and who will no longer play before the playoffs, nor Khris Middleton. To get started, Milwaukee therefore relies on the duo Bobby Portis – Brook Lopez, author of 17 points in the first quarter (27-23). Then in the second, the first city explodes with 15 points. Damian Lillard took over before the break and the Bucks made the difference (64-50).
The All-Star point guard continues after halftime, with baskets near the circle but also from afar. He is supported by Patrick Beverley and opposite, the Magic is having difficulty scoring baskets. Obviously, the gap widens further (96-77). Doc Rivers' troops managed the last act without trembling and won 117-99 in a match that was neither brilliant nor impressive, but serious and diligent.
It's a second victory in a row, after the success against Boston and, one week before the playoffs and after complicated days recently, that's already a given.
What you must remember
– Bobby Portis was wild. With Giannis Antetokounmpo absent, the interior could afford a rare match in the major five (his second of the season). He took full advantage of it especially with this heat in the second quarter with 15 points at 7/8 shooting and two interceptions. For a few moments, we only saw him on the floor. Portis finished with 30 points on 14/18 shooting, 9 rebounds, 5 steals and 3 assists.
– Orlando needs to be careful. This second defeat in a row for the Floridians is not ideal as an important meeting against the Sixers looms. Orlando still has fifth place in its hands, but Philadelphia is only one win away (and has the tiebreaker). Clearly, a defeat against Joel Embiid and company, and the Sixers go ahead, and perhaps even Indiana too, which currently has the same record (46-34). The place in the playoffs is not yet assured at all for Paolo Banchero and his teammates…
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How to read the stats? Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive rebound; T = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = Point differential when the player is on the field; Pts = Points; Eval: player evaluation calculated from positive actions – negative actions.