The Milwaukee Bucks were no match for the Brooklyn Nets in their recent matchup.
Following an impressive run during the 2024 NBA Cup, the Milwaukee Bucks have somewhat struggled to maintain that form in the regular season.
Since lifting the NBA Cup, the Bucks are now 2-2 as they suffered an excruciating defeat at the hands of the Brooklyn Nets.
Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez stepped up for the team in Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s absence, but it wasn’t enough.
Over the years, Lopez has completely modified his game to fit the definition of a modern-era NBA center.
A key reason behind that has been Lopez’s ability to consistently knock down shots from beyond the three-point line.
However, it doesn’t mean that the Bucks center has lost his touch on the defensive end of the floor. In fact, he has now moved to the 20th spot on the NBA’s all-time block leaders.
Lopez contributed 20 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists in the Bucks’ 111-105 defeat vs. the Nets. He also had 2 steals and 2 blocks to his name while flaunting an impressive 4-of-5 three-point shooting display.
A key reason behind the Bucks’ six-point defeat was turnovers. Middleton had 7 turnovers by himself and the Nets punished Milwaukee for it.
On the other hand, Lopez managed to keep his turnover count at just one. Middleton praised his long-time teammate’s long-distance shooting, among other things, in the postgame interview.
“That’s great. The guy has had my back for so many years, getting blown by or me just trying to funnel guys to him to get some type of help,” Middleton said.
“It shows his longevity, his skill set to be top 20 in blocks but also having to know how to hit the three-point line is crazy. Congrats to him,” he added.
A key moment in the game was Lopez’s incredible logo three-pointer and Middleton shared his thoughts on it as well.
“We all know when Brook is hot, just keep feeding him, he’s going to launch it from anywhere.”
With Antetokounmpo and Lillard still sidelined, the Bucks will continue to expect similar performances from Lopez. Hopefully, he will get some help from his teammates in future games.
Related Posts
