Jayson Tatum delivered an impressive performance with 34 points and 10 rebounds as the Boston Celtics triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks 111-105 on Friday night. This match marked Khris Middleton’s return to the court for the Bucks after missing the first 21 games of the season due to recovery from offseason ankle surgeries.
Adding to the Celtics’ success, Jaylen Brown contributed 25 points, and the team excelled from beyond the arc, sinking 17 three-pointers en route to securing their 10th win in 11 games. For the Bucks, Damian Lillard topped their scoring with 31 points, while Giannis Antetokounmpo celebrated his 30th birthday with 30 points and 11 rebounds.
Middleton’s return was significant, as he scored 11 points and provided five assists in 23 minutes of play. The game was tightly contested, with the Celtics leading 107-102 following a floater by Jrue Holiday. However, Brown was penalized for a foul on Middleton’s three-point shot, resulting in Middleton making all three free throws.
In the closing moments, two free throws by Holiday solidified the Celtics’ lead at 109-105. Antetokounmpo’s turnover in the final minutes allowed Al Horford to score a crucial layup that helped seal the game for Boston. Notably, this victory adds to the Celtics’ dominance over the Bucks, winning all three of their encounters this season.
The game was characterized by its competitiveness, featuring 11 ties and 14 lead changes, with neither team able to pull away by more than eight points. With Middleton back, the Bucks will look to find their rhythm as they prepare for their next game against Brooklyn, while the Celtics will aim to maintain their winning momentum against Memphis.
This matchup highlights the resilience and talent of both teams, suggesting an exciting season ahead for the Eastern Conference, especially with Middleton’s return potentially reinvigorating the Bucks.
In summary, the Celtics showcased their strength against the Bucks, while Middleton’s comeback offers hope for Milwaukee as they aim to reintegrate him into their game strategy.