Post-Game Recap

3 Key Factors Around the Loss

1 – Refs and FTs

Many calls seemed to go the Milwaukee Bucks’ way, and the box score confirmed it as the Bucks shot 21 more free throws as the Cavs only shot nine compared to 28 for Milwaukee.

2 – Three-point shooting

The Cavs had a rough night from deep, only making six out of 43 attempts.  

3 – Mitchell and Allen 

Donovan Mitchell made his start in eleven days and had a team-high 34 points. Jarrett Allen had another big game shooting 15 for 17 and scoring 30 points while also grabbing 12 boards

Game Summary

Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a standout performance with 34 points and 16 rebounds, while Damian Lillard showcased his scoring prowess by contributing 24 of his 31 points in the second half. Their efforts propelled the Milwaukee Bucks to a 119-111 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night.

In a crucial third quarter, both Antetokounmpo and Lillard played pivotal roles, each scoring 14 points as Milwaukee outscored Cleveland 40-21. This comeback effort erased a 15-point deficit, securing the lead for the Bucks. Currently boasting the third-best record in the league at 24-8, Milwaukee demonstrated their resilience and offensive prowess.

Donovan Mitchell marked his return for Cleveland with an impressive performance, recording 34 points, six rebounds, and nine assists. Jarrett Allen had a career-high 30 points on 15-of-17 shooting, along with 12 rebounds and six assists. Despite their achievements, Cleveland struggled with long-distance shooting, missing 37 of 43 attempts from 3-point range.

The Cavaliers, now 5-2 since the absence of power forward Evan Mobley and point guard Darius Garland, who are sidelined until February due to injury, faced challenges in maintaining their momentum. Malik Beasley contributed 15 points with five 3-pointers, and Khris Middleton added 13 points along with a season-high 11 assists for the Bucks. Brook Lopez made his presence felt with nine points, 10 rebounds, and six blocked shots.

The Bucks, concluding a successful 3-1 four-game road trip, will have only one home game in their upcoming eight-game stretch, ending on January 6 in Houston.

Despite averaging 30.9 points, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to grapple with right calf discomfort, having missed only one game this season due to the lingering injury. Bucks coach Adrian Griffin noted that the injury remains a day-to-day concern.

Jarrett Allen made a strong start by making his first nine shots and contributing 18 points in the opening half, helping Cleveland secure a 59-53 lead at halftime. Notably, the Milwaukee Bucks share ownership with the Cleveland Browns, as Jimmy and Dee Haslam serve as co-owners of the Bucks.

Up Next

At Toronto Raptors New Year’s Day.

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