In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, the Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Los Angeles Clippers with a score of 116-110, thanks in part to Giannis Antetokounmpo’s solid return after being sidelined for six games due to a strained calf. Antetokounmpo managed to score 23 points, despite being on a limited minutes plan, as he played just shy of 24 minutes. He exited the game for good with 6:27 left on the clock while the Bucks were trailing 101-96. However, Milwaukee surged ahead to clinch the victory even with Antetokounmpo off the court.
Brook Lopez emerged as a key performer for the Bucks, contributing 22 points, including a pivotal three-point play that secured Milwaukee’s lead with 3:02 remaining in the game. On the other hand, Clippers star Kawhi Leonard led his team with 25 points, followed closely by James Harden with 24 points and Ivica Zubac recording a double-double with 20 points and 15 rebounds. The Clippers, however, played without Norman Powell, who was out due to knee soreness.
Additionally, the Bucks were missing Bobby Portis, who is currently serving a 25-game suspension for testing positive for the painkiller Tramadol, which he claimed was taken accidentally.
In terms of notable performances, Harden elevated his career points total to an impressive 27,005, becoming the 13th player in NBA history to surpass the 27,000-point milestone. Kris Dunn stood out for the Clippers by achieving a career-high of six steals during the game. At one point, Los Angeles had a substantial lead of 93-80 with under 11 minutes to go.
This game marked the first occasion where Antetokounmpo played alongside new teammates Kyle Kuzma, Kevin Porter Sr., and Jericho Sims, all of whom were acquired during the trade deadline. Sim ultimately made his debut for the Bucks but didn’t score across 17 minutes of play, as Portis was serving his suspension.
A turning point in the game occurred when the score was tied at 104. Lopez blocked a shot by Dunn with less than three and a half minutes remaining, then scored with a three-point play on the next possession, giving the Bucks the lead they would not relinquish.
Another crucial moment came from Damian Lillard, who notably scored 12 of his 15 total points in the final 6:48 of the game, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Looking ahead, the Bucks are set to visit Washington next, where they will meet former teammate Khris Middleton. The Clippers, meanwhile, will make their way to Indiana for their next game on Sunday.
