The Milwaukee Bucks dropped to 16-14 on the season 116-111 Saturday’s game against the Chicago Bulls. Although they were losing throughout the first half, they managed to maintain their good form and took the lead at many points in the third and fourth quarters. Unfortunately, sloppy play in the final five minutes of the game was once again the difference and Chicago was able to take the lead delayed on.
Khris Middleton had a costly turnover at a crucial point in the game, but otherwise had a solid game with 21 points, six rebounds and four assists. He also posted a solid 8-15 from the floor (4-6 from three) and 1-1 from the free throw line. Fortunately, he also avoided stern injury when he landed on Lonzo Ball’s foot after a three-point shot. The ball was whistled for a flagrant foul during play.
Brook Lopez also had a solid game with 22 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three blocks.
Milwaukee Bucks point guard Damian Lillard made history against the Chicago Bulls
Unfortunately for Milwaukee, two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo was again absent due to illness. On the other hand, they saw an eight-time All-Star Damian Lillard return to play for the first time since the NBA Championship Game. He missed the previous four games due to the same illness.
After returning to the court, Lillard recorded 29 points, six rebounds, 12 assists and two steals. It’s worth noting that he didn’t commit a single turnover and that’s what made this night historic for him and the Bucks franchise:
Damian Lillard tonight:
29 points
6 REB
11 AST (0 TOV)
First Buck in franchise history with multiple games 10/25 at 0 TOV. pic.twitter.com/2TWq1MpohH
— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 29, 2024
As the graphic above shows, Lillard is the first player in Milwaukee team history to score over 25 points and over 10 assists in multiple games without committing a single turnover.
Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers regrets not playing more Damian Lillard delayed in the game
One of the things that makes Lillard such a great player is his great performances. He is one of the best players in the NBA due to his ability to take over close games and make shots when time is running out.
However, he made his last shot for Milwaukee with 5:07 left in the game against the Bulls.
Then the head coach Dr. Rivers lamented his failure for his star point guard to receive the ball:
“I have to be better at making sure Dame has the ball in his hands the whole game. We were preparing to perform to get him into the second league [action] because they were charging and he never got it. We have to communicate to him and live with it.
Of course, the Bulls were able to get the most out of Dame because Giannis wasn’t playing. Once Milwaukee returns, it will be able to get back to playing the basketball that helped them overcome a 2-8 start.
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