The Milwaukee Bucks have been at the center of attention following significant roster changes and impressive performances on the court. After trading Khris Middleton for Kyle Kuzma prior to the February 6 trade deadline, the team is now attempting to navigate through injuries to star players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
Recently, the Bucks showcased their resilience, particularly during their game on February 20 against the LA Clippers. Despite being down mid-way through the game, the Bucks mounted an impressive comeback, finishing with a score of 116-110. This victory highlighted the potential of the pairing between Lillard and Antetokounmpo, who, even limited by injuries, managed to lead the team with strategic gameplay.
Antetokounmpo, who returned after missing six games due to a strained calf, scored 23 points. It’s clear he is still the foundation of the team, and his return gives the Bucks newfound strength. Notably, he logged just under 24 minutes of playtime but left the game with 6:27 remaining when the Bucks were trailing 101-96. During his absence, the role players stepped up remarkably, completing a 13-point comeback. Brook Lopez, with 22 points, played a pivotal role, putting the Bucks ahead with important plays down the stretch, including scoring three-point play with just over three minutes left. Lillard, often referred to for his clutch performances, scored 12 of his 15 total points toward the end of the game, demonstrating why fans and analysts have dubbed this as "Dame Time once again."
Following this victory, Milwaukee faced the Washington Wizards on February 21, winning 104-101, albeit under tighter conditions. The team was already down Bobby Portis, suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy, and had to manage Lillard’s absence due to hamstring issues. Antetokounmpo played under restrictions to manage his calf injury, allowing him to contribute 18 points, but still making it hard for the Bucks to fully utilize their star player.
Kyle Kuzma, who has been adjusting to his new role, led the Bucks against the Wizards with 19 points. Meanwhile, Lopez provided key support, scoring 18 points and securing timely free throws late in the game. Lopez’s defense was also highlighted when he blocked former teammate Khris Middleton's layup attempt, maintaining the Bucks' lead during tense moments.
The game against the Wizards wasn't without its troubles, as the Bucks experienced scoring droughts, including not making any field goals for the last seven minutes of the match. Former Buck Middleton contributed but fell short of tying the game with ineffective shot attempts under pressure. Despite holding a significant lead earlier on, the Bucks managed to scrape together another win, demonstrating their tenacity.
Reflecting on Portis’s suspension, Antetokounmpo expressed surprise and disappointment, stating, "I think everybody was surprised, because I've been around Bobby, and I know he's not a guy who ever takes any illegal substance." He went on to add clarity on how the team views the situation, indicating they believe Portis made an 'honest mistake.' Nevertheless, his absence will be felt substantially as they push through the second half of the season without one of their key bench players.
The Bucks now face the challenge of maintaining momentum as they push for playoff positioning. With Portis out, the remaining players will be under immense pressure to stay healthy and effective. Fortunately, the recent victories are promising signs of what the Bucks can achieve when their stars align, and they strategically manage the roles of supporting players.
Milwaukee currently holds a record of 30-24 and stands poised to surge as they approach playoffs if they can continue securing wins. They have shown glimpses of being one of the teams no opponent wants to face if they get hot during the postseason.
Overall, the backdrop of roster changes, player health, and recent performances paints a dynamic picture of the Milwaukee Bucks as they navigate the remainder of the 2024-25 NBA season. If the current trend continues, they could very well become serious contenders come playoff time.