Camille Davis and Justin Garcia here, the hosts of the daily Locked On Bucks podcast, with your daily Locked On Bucks newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Bucks and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Dynamic Duo Shines Despite Setback
Nov 2, 2024; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (45) drives then pulls up for a shot against Milwaukee Bucks guard Gary Trent Jr. (5) with .3 second left on the clock against the Milwaukee Bucks in the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. Final Cleveland Cavaliers 114, Milwaukee Bucks 113. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images|Michael McLoone/Michael McLoone-Imagn Images
Milwaukee Bucks: Navigating Early Season Challenges
The Milwaukee Bucks are off to a rocky start this season, sitting at 1-5. Despite the less-than-ideal record, there are glimmers of hope and areas of improvement that fans can latch onto. The recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers showcased some of the best basketball we’ve seen from the Bucks this season, even if the result wasn’t in their favor.
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s Dynamic Duo
One of the standout aspects of the Bucks’ performance was the synergy between Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. The pair combined for an impressive 75 points, with Lillard hitting ten three-pointers. Their on-court chemistry is beginning to flourish, highlighted by Antetokounmpo’s improved screen setting, which played a crucial role in freeing up Lillard for open shots. This partnership is something Bucks fans have eagerly anticipated, and it seems to be developing into a formidable force.
Antetokounmpo’s performance was particularly noteworthy. His ability to set effective screens and his overall presence on both ends of the court were instrumental in keeping the Bucks competitive against the Cavaliers. The energy and enthusiasm displayed by both players, celebrating each other’s successes, were infectious and a positive sign for the team’s morale.
Bench Struggles and Rotational Adjustments
While the starting lineup showed promise, the Bucks’ bench continues to be a point of concern. Bobby Portis, in particular, had a challenging game against Cleveland, struggling both offensively and defensively. The bench rotations are still a work in progress, and head coach Doc Rivers has acknowledged the need for adjustments. The team is exploring different combinations to find the right mix that can provide stability and support when the starters are resting.
Gary Trent Jr. is another player under the spotlight. Despite getting good looks, his shots haven’t been falling consistently. However, there’s still confidence in his ability to adapt and find his rhythm within the team’s system. Trent is being asked to play a different style than he’s used to, focusing more on catch-and-shoot opportunities, which will take time to adjust to.
The Bucks’ early-season struggles are not uncommon, and every team faces rough patches. The key is to maintain faith in the process and continue working on the little things that can make a big difference, such as setting solid screens, boxing out, and improving transition defense.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Milwaukee Bucks’ early-season challenges and potential, tune into the Locked On Bucks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Bucks Podcast:
- The impact of bench rotations and potential changes
- Gary Trent Jr.'s role and shooting slump
- Bobby Portis’s fit in the current Bucks lineup
- The importance of transition defense and offensive execution
- Upcoming games and what to expect from the Bucks
Reflections from Vince Carter’s jersey retirement night
The Toronto Raptors retired Vince Carter’s jersey on Saturday night. The ceremony came during half time of the Raptors-Kings game, where an emotional Carter and his family watched a banner with his number and the iconic photo of him mid-between-the-legs-dunk rise up to the rafters in the arena it all started in for him. That moment marked a culmination. Of a career, of a person’s trepidatious relationship with a city and its fan base, of a distinct era of NBA basketball and identity of a franchise, but also of a month’s worth of moments for Carter.
The Raptors made the announcement at a community basketball court dedication to Carter in late September, where franchise president Masai Ujiri thanked Carter for all he did to inspire the game in Canada and put the Raptors franchise on the map. “Time heals things,” Ujiri told the crowd before he confirmed Carter would be the first player in team history to have their number retired. Carter was overcome and fought back tears as he thanked the crowd, Ujiri and the city.
The tributes continued. Carter had an airplane dedicated to him by one of the country’s major airlines, Air Canada, in a nod to his nickname of the same. A mural was unveiled in downtown Toronto, and it was announced Carter would join as a broadcaster to provide coverage for select games this season — also the Raptors 30th anniversary season.
Given the host of accolades and recognition, I found it telling when Carter sat down in front of assembled media prior to Saturday night’s game for a pre-ceremony presser, and said he wasn’t sure what to expect of the night but encouraged everyone to “live in the moment”. I asked him, in light of every tribute and celebration thus far, how he was doing that or if his perception of the moment changed. He laughed. “I’m fighting,” he admitted.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis Doc Rivers criticizes Milwaukee Bucks players during a tough streak, prompting potential changes to improve team performance. (Sports Illustrated)
Ranking Milwaukee Bucks drop in NBA power rankings, impacting team morale and prompting analysis of strategies for recovery. (Sports Illustrated)
Biz The NBA intentionally scheduled no games on U.S. Election Day (E! News)
Analysis What happens to Damian Lillard if Giannis Antetokounmpo leaves the Bucks? (CBS)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Paul George’s Return Is A Huge Fantasy Basketball Boost
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks in the second quarter at State Farm Arena.|Photo by Brett Davis-Imagn Images
As we wrap up another thrilling week in the NBA, it’s time to delve into the latest injury updates and player performances that could impact your fantasy basketball strategy. With only three games on Sunday, the anticipation builds for an action-packed 15-game day. Let’s explore the key developments and what they mean for your fantasy lineup.
Injury Updates: Key Players to Watch
Zach LaVine’s shoulder issues continue to be a concern, leaving his status questionable. This ongoing problem could affect his availability, so keep an eye on updates. Meanwhile, Rudy Gobert’s ankle sprain opens opportunities for Naz Reid and Luka Garza, especially in deeper leagues. With Aaron Nesmith out and Andrew Nembhard questionable, Ben Mathurin and Jarace Walker are set to see increased roles, potentially stepping into starting positions or gaining extra minutes.
Lauri Markkanen’s return from back spasms is imminent, which is great news for fantasy managers. In Philadelphia, Joel Embiid’s absence isn’t surprising, but Paul George’s expected return is a significant development. Despite being listed as questionable, reports suggest George is ready to play, albeit with a possible minutes restriction. This isn’t a long-term injury, so expect him to be back in full swing soon.
Player Performances: Who’s Stepping Up?
The Detroit Pistons secured a road win against the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing improved play compared to last season. Jalen Duren stood out with a solid performance, contributing 13 points, 17 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His increased minutes were partly due to Isaiah Stewart fouling out, but it’s a positive sign for Duren’s fantasy value.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Bucks podcasts.
Milwaukee Bucks drop fourth straight game after 99-122 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies The Milwaukee Bucks are now 1-4 after dropping their fourth game in a row, this time to the Memphis Grizzlies. As the Bucks continue playing through a tough schedule, including a matchup against the undefeated Cleveland Cavaliers, they must address these early-season challenges to regain their footing.
Can the Milwaukee Bucks Turn Their Season Around? The Milwaukee Bucks, off to a surprising 1-3 start, are raising eyebrows in the NBA. With Khris Middleton still sidelined, the team faces challenges in both transition defense and three-point coverage. Can the Bucks overcome these hurdles and find their rhythm?
Can the Milwaukee Bucks Overcome Their Early Season Struggles? The Milwaukee Bucks are facing unexpected challenges early in the season. Explore the role of Gary Trent Jr. as he builds chemistry with Giannis Antetokounmpo, and dive into the Bucks’ concerning three-point shooting trends. Is patience key or do these trends signal deeper issues?
