In a disappointing follow-up to their NBA championship triumph, the Milwaukee Bucks faced a significant setback against the Cleveland Cavaliers, suffering a 124-101 defeat. Playing without Damian Lillard, who was sidelined due to a calf strain, the Bucks struggled to find cohesion. Although Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered an impressive stat line with 33 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, and three steals, his performance fell short of his recent standards. Khris Middleton contributed 14 points and three assists, showing signs of recovery, but it wasn’t enough to stem the tide against a balanced Cavaliers team.
Cleveland showcased their depth with six players scoring in double digits, led by Donovan Mitchell, who scored 27 points and provided six assists. The Bucks appeared fatigued and lacked the intensity needed to challenge their opponents. Coach Doc Rivers acknowledged the team’s flat performance, noting that the players seemed tired and hinting at possible changes for future games.
One key lesson from the game was the noticeable impact of Lillard’s absence. The Bucks ranked 24th in assist percentage, indicating they primarily rely on individual talent for scoring. Without Lillard, the team’s playmaking capabilities were significantly limited, leading to stagnant offensive sets. Additionally, the Bucks struggled in three-point shooting, losing that battle by a staggering 30 points. However, they performed well in other areas, such as points in the paint and fast-break opportunities, suggesting there were aspects to build on moving forward.
Despite this loss being challenging, there is hope. The Bucks have a chance to regroup as they prepare for their next game against the Washington Wizards. With their star players returning and adjustments being made, the team can bounce back stronger and reclaim their offensive momentum.
Overall, while this defeat highlights some weaknesses, there are opportunities for growth and improvement as the season progresses.