Bucks Dominate Magic: A Closer Look at Milwaukee’s Impressive Performance

Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) shoots during the second quarter against the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum.

Jan 15, 2025; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard (0) shoots during the second quarter against the Orlando Magic at Fiserv Forum.

Jeff Hanisch/Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

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The Milwaukee Bucks have been on a roll lately, winning five of their last six games. Their most recent victory, a 29-point blowout against the Orlando Magic, was particularly impressive. Despite the Magic missing key players like Franz Wagner, Mo Wagner, and Jalen Suggs, this win shouldn’t be overlooked.

One of the most encouraging aspects of the game was the Bucks’ fast start on offense. This marks the second consecutive game where Milwaukee has come out strong, addressing a previous concern about their offensive struggles. The Magic, known for their solid defense, couldn’t contain the Bucks’ early onslaught.

This win also secured the season series tiebreaker for Milwaukee against Orlando, with a 3-0 record and one game left to play. This could prove crucial in the Eastern Conference standings, especially considering the Bucks’ struggles against the top three teams in the East.

Damian Lillard’s Performance

Damian Lillard had a standout game against the Magic. His speed and decision-making caught defenders off guard throughout the night. Dame showcased his quick release, surprising Paolo Banchero with a long three from the Fiserv Forum logo. His efficiency was remarkable, and he even displayed active hands on defense, contributing to the team’s overall defensive effort.

Giannis and Khris Connection

The chemistry between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton was on full display. Their connection, honed over 11 years of playing together, made several plays look effortless. Middleton’s return from injury has been managed carefully, but his impact is undeniable. In just 21 minutes, he contributed 14 points, six assists, and no turnovers, finishing with a plus-19 rating.

Giannis continued his efficient scoring, going 11-for-15 from the field for 26 points. While his free-throw shooting still needs improvement, his overall performance set the tone for the team on both ends of the court.

For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bucks’ recent success, tune into the Locked On Bucks podcast for this and much more.

Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Bucks Podcast:

  • Andre Jackson Jr.'s injury and its potential impact on the Bucks’ rotation
  • A.J. Green’s case for increased playing time
  • The Bucks’ upcoming matchup against the Toronto Raptors
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