A train going at high speed. This is what the Kings took into their heads against the Bucks in the first quarter. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard scored 25 points in this first act and Milwaukee, in addition to a 21-2, then passed 47 points, with 12 assists on the 18 baskets scored. After 24 minutes, Doc Rivers' players had scored 75 points.
“We already had the right mentality. Then, we were in the racket. Our pace was very good”, list Damian Lillard. “We had the impression that, as soon as we passed midfield, we were doing the right thing. We were fast, we didn't let the Kings set up on defense. The ball rolled around and ended up where it needed to be. »
“Lady and I set the tone, by being aggressive, by finding our positions”adds the Greek. “Dame attacked the pick-and-roll, the guys were ready to shoot. We played with a steady pace and we took our shots. 47 points in the first quarter is good. »
“When Giannis and Dame make a lot of assists, we are so much better”
While he scored 33 points, Giannis Antetokounmpo also delivered 13 assists, which allowed him, with his 11 rebounds, to compile a 50th career triple-double. His playmaker compiled 24 points and 7 assists.
“When he and Dame make a lot of assists, like in this match, with 20 between them, then we are so much better than when they only make four”emphasizes Doc Rivers.
The Kings, certainly on a good run, are not the best defenses in the league and when the Bucks are running like this offensively, it's easy for them to dominate the Californians. However, they remain a dangerous team and despite the gap, with a lack of concentration, the second half could have gone badly.
“It was a war in the second half, to keep our concentration. We were 30 points ahead and I think that, at times, we lost the thread a little,” remarks the coach. “It's hard for a coach to manage such a lead, because it can go quickly, but we made the necessary shots. »
