4 days Ago By Reign Amurao, Hardwood Heroics
The Milwaukee Bucks improved their record to 5-9 on Monday after defeating the Houston Rockets 101-100. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst was upbeat on Tuesday’s “NBA Today,” stating that the Bucks have a shot to compete in the NBA Finals. The Bucks locked in on both ends of the floor against the Rockets.
On the defensive end, All-Star forward Giannis Antetokounmpo blocked Alperen Sengun ’s shot that would’ve pushed Houston’s lead to three points. On the other end, point guard Damian Lillard made the tough layup against Dillon Brooks to give Milwaukee the lead. Following their strong win, Windhorst shared his optimism on the ESPN show.
“Do you feel that 5-8 record being in eighth place in the Eastern Conference?” Windhorst said. “Because that’s number one reason, is that when you’re the Bucks, if you’re 5-8, you’re on a genuine hot streak in the East.” “Number two, Giannis is playing spectacular.
He’s averaging 30 and 12, highest points he’s ever had, most rebounds in five years. Number three, Brook Lopez waking up. Lopez got off to a terrible start to this season, looked really old the first two, three weeks.
He has rebounded nicely.” "You win five games in a row in the East, you might as well make plans for the Finals." @WindhorstESPN is optimistic about Giannis and the Bucks after going 3-1 in their last 4 games pic.
twitter.com/UP01B3XEiS — NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) November 19, 2024 Windhorst reminded everyone that Khris Middleton hasn’t played this season and his return could improve the team’s chances in the postseason. “Number four, don’t forget about Khris Middleton, he will come back eventually and will help this team.
You win five games in a row in the East, you might as well make plans for the Finals.” The 2024–25 NBA season began slowly for the Bucks , who had a 2–7 record after nine games. Milwaukee, fortunately, has improved and won three of their previous four games.
NBA confirms Milwaukee Bucks star stepped out of bounds after their defensive stop Antetokounmpo’s defensive awareness allowed the team to end the game with a win. However, what happened after his block has drawn criticism from fans. After securing the ball, the Greek Freak stepped out of bounds.
Regretfully for the Rockets, the officials did not call the infraction, which gave the Bucks a possession at the most critical point in the game. The league verified the missed travel call on Tuesday in its “Last Two Minute Report.” GIANNIS BLOCK AND DAME FOR THE WIN!!! pic.
twitter.com/Jin9TBcodS — Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 19, 2024 For the Bucks, Antetokounmpo finished with 20 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists. Three blocks from the All-Star forward were crucial to their victory over Houston.
With 27 points and 10 rebounds, Milwaukee’s starting center Brook Lopez had a key role in their triumph. With four blocks and three steals, Lopez had a fantastic defensive performance. The Bucks’ three-game road journey will begin on Wednesday when they take on the Chicago Bulls.
This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission..
