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TORONTO – In a commanding performance, the Milwaukee Bucks triumphed over the Toronto Raptors with a score of 128-104 on Monday. Damian Lillard led the charge with 25 points in just 26 minutes, showcasing his skills with five three-pointers. Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed significantly with a double-double of 11 points, 13 assists, and 12 rebounds, aiding the Bucks in breaking their recent two-game losing streak at Scotiabank Arena.
For the Raptors, R.J. Barrett made a strong return after missing three games due to illness, scoring 25 points. This matchup marked a significant moment as it was the first time this season that Toronto had all five starters available, and it was also the first occasion since March 1 where their key trio of Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley were on the court together.
Barnes added 21 points to the Raptors’ effort, while center Jakob Poeltl contributed 12 points. Quickley and rookie Gradey Dick pitched in with 11 points each. The game, however, saw Toronto struggling from distance, hitting only 9 of 35 attempts from beyond the arc.
Game Flow
The Bucks established an early lead, outscoring the Raptors 28-19 in the first quarter and extending it to 66-47 by halftime. By the end of the third quarter, Milwaukee maintained a comfortable 99-75 advantage.
Bobby Portis also played a pivotal role in the Bucks’ victory, scoring 18 points as the team secured its fourth win in nine attempts since clinching the NBA Cup three weeks prior.
Noteworthy Highlights
The Raptors struggled with their ball control, committing three over-and-back violations in the initial three quarters, indicative of their overall sloppy play. In a sentimental moment, the Raptors honored former player Gary Trent Jr., now with the Bucks, with a video tribute at the start of the second quarter, reflecting on his three-year tenure in Toronto prior to his offseason move.
Decisive Moments
A critical point in the game occurred after Gradey Dick made a baseline three-pointer. The Bucks quickly countered with consecutive three-pointers from Lillard and Taurean Prince, widening their lead to 77-52 with 7:49 left in the third quarter, a momentum shift that the Raptors could not recover from.
Key Player Stats
Giannis Antetokounmpo, despite battling a sore knee, played in limited capacity, notably not scoring 20-plus points for the first time this season, reflecting his reduced impact on the game.
Looking Ahead
Up next, the Bucks will host the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday, while the Raptors will travel to face the New York Knicks the same day.
Source
globalnews.ca