Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Absence Overshadows Milwaukee Bucks’ Dismal Performance Against Cleveland Cavaliers
February 7, 2024
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
In a disheartening turn of events, the Milwaukee Bucks succumbed to a resounding 135-95 defeat at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night, marking their most lopsided loss of the season. The game was overshadowed by the notable absence of two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was sidelined due to a bruised right shoulder.
Antetokounmpo’s Sudden Absence Leaves Bucks Shorthanded
Antetokounmpo, who has been averaging an impressive 31.2 points and 11.4 rebounds this season, was not listed on the official injury report until just two hours before tipoff. This sudden unavailability sent shockwaves through the Bucks organization and left a gaping hole in their starting lineup.
The seven-time All-Star had been playing through discomfort in recent weeks, but he aggravated the injury during Sunday’s overtime win against the Sacramento Kings. Despite scoring 27 points in that contest, Antetokounmpo’s shoulder was clearly bothering him, and the Bucks decided to err on the side of caution by resting him against the Cavaliers.
Bucks Struggle to Find Offensive Rhythm Without Antetokounmpo
In Antetokounmpo’s absence, the Bucks struggled to find their offensive rhythm. Jrue Holiday led the team with 22 points, but he was the only Milwaukee player to score in double figures. Brook Lopez added 15 points, while Khris Middleton and Grayson Allen each contributed 11 points.
The Cavaliers, meanwhile, were firing on all cylinders. All-Star guard Darius Garland led the way with 37 points and 10 assists, while Evan Mobley added 28 points and 11 rebounds. Isaac Okoro chipped in with 20 points, and Caris LeVert contributed 19 points off the bench.
Bucks Defense Falters Against Cavs’ High-Powered Attack
The Bucks’ defense, which had been one of the best in the league this season, was unable to contain the Cavaliers’ high-powered attack. Cleveland shot 52.8% from the field and 40.9% from three-point range, while the Bucks shot just 39.5% from the field and 23.1% from beyond the arc.
The loss dropped the Bucks to 41-16 on the season, still good for first place in the Eastern Conference. However, the Cavaliers are now just 1.5 games behind the Bucks in the standings, setting up a potential showdown for the conference title later this season.
Jae Crowder Returns, But Bucks’ Bench Struggles Continue
While the Bucks were without Antetokounmpo, they did welcome back forward Jae Crowder, who had been sidelined since November 11 with a torn adductor muscle. Crowder made his return to the lineup in the starting lineup and played 19 minutes, finishing with 15 points, 1 rebound, and 1 steal.
However, the Bucks’ bench, which has been a source of strength for the team all season, failed to provide much support. Bobby Portis, who is averaging 14.2 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, was held to just 4 points on 2-of-10 shooting. Jordan Nwora and Serge Ibaka combined for just 10 points on 4-of-15 shooting.
Bucks Look to Regroup Before All-Star Break
The Bucks will have a chance to regroup during the upcoming All-Star break. Antetokounmpo is expected to be re-evaluated after the break, and the team is hopeful that he will be able to return to action soon.
Milwaukee will return to action on February 23 when they host the Miami Heat. The Bucks will then embark on a four-game road trip before returning home to face the Boston Celtics on March 8.
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