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.
Bucks Bounce Back
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) gestures in the fourth quarter against the Utah Jazz at Fiserv Forum.
|Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
After a disappointing stretch of six consecutive losses, the Milwaukee Bucks finally found their rhythm, securing a commanding victory over the Utah Jazz with a 123-100 win. This triumph was not just a relief but a showcase of potential, as the Bucks demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure. The standout performances of Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who combined for an impressive 65 points, were pivotal in this victory. Their growing chemistry on the court is becoming increasingly evident, providing a glimpse of what this dynamic duo can achieve together.
Andre Jackson Jr.'s Impact
One of the key changes that contributed to this win was the introduction of Andre Jackson Jr. into the starting lineup. His defensive prowess and energy were infectious, setting the tone for the team’s performance. Jackson’s ability to disrupt the Jazz’s offense was clear, as he recorded four steals and consistently applied pressure on their ball handlers. His presence on the court allowed the Bucks to maintain a high level of defensive intensity, which was crucial in limiting the Jazz’s scoring opportunities, especially in the second half.
Giannis and Dame: A Formidable Duo
Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard’s performances were nothing short of spectacular. Giannis, with his relentless drive and ability to dominate the paint, was a force to be reckoned with. His 31 points and 16 rebounds were a testament to his impact on both ends of the court. Notably, Giannis became the Bucks’ all-time leader in offensive rebounds during this game, adding another accolade to his illustrious career.
Lillard, on the other hand, showcased his scoring versatility, contributing 34 points and demonstrating his ability to hit crucial shots from beyond the arc. His performance was not just about scoring; Lillard’s playmaking abilities were on full display as he facilitated the offense and created opportunities for his teammates. The synergy between Giannis and Lillard is becoming a cornerstone of the Bucks’ strategy, and their ability to play off each other is a promising sign for the team’s future.
The Bucks’ victory over the Jazz is a step in the right direction, but the journey is far from over. With upcoming games against formidable opponents like the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, the Bucks will need to build on this momentum and continue to refine their strategies. The integration of young talents like Jackson and the continued development of the Giannis-Lillard partnership will be crucial as the season progresses.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Bucks’ strategies and performances, tune into the Locked On Bucks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Bucks Podcast:
Analysis of the Bucks’ defensive strategies
The impact of bench players on the team’s performance
Upcoming challenges against the Knicks and Celtics
The Nuggets did it (Nikola Jokic did it), the Warriors did it (the death lineup and defensive efficiency), the Celtics did it (switching one through five, pre-switching, neutralizing open lanes), and now the Thunder are doing it.
It’s been described as pestering, smothering, swarming, but I‘d like to put “car wash” into consideration. That’s the set up awaiting opponents. The car (the opposing team) gets locked into those self-driving tracks and the gauntlet begins. Lu Dort and Alex Caruso appear as those cylindrical spinning brushes, stripping the ball outright and early or else funnelling players into the next wave of guards. Pressure continues from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jaylen Williams but it becomes more targeted, thinking of the jet streams of water now being directed at the car from every angle — and those spinning whirlwinds of Caruso and Dort haven’t relented.
If, somehow, an opposing player finds a sliver of daylight in the so-small-its-micro-ball switching scheme the Thunder are playing, if they manage to get out from the many hands reaching in, pressuring, forcing turnovers, then they will meet Chet Holmgren at the rim. Holmgren is like those long, slapping shammy tentacles that come down on the hood, sides and roof of the car from every angle, though his reach and hands are much more expertly deployed. The Thunder have a defensive rating of 96.5 (for context the Warriors, at second best, seem light-years behind with a respectable 103.8) and lead the league in steals (13.4) and blocks (7.3). The cars are coming out spotless, utterly worked.
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
Replay Damian Lillard’s 34-point performance propelled the Bucks to a decisive victory against the Jazz, showcasing his offensive prowess. (BrewHoop)
Preview The Milwaukee Bucks take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden at 7:30pm ET. Read the preview.(NBA)
Watch Defense wins games? Here’s an insightful breakdown of OKC’s defensive schemes. (Thinking Basketball)
Must Read The Influence of Sedona Price: Take a fascinating look at the domino effect of NIL on college athletics, women’s sports, social media and athlete health. (The New Yorker)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Basketball Impact of Miles Bridges’ Injury
Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) holds his knee after a collision at the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Spectrum Center.|Photo by Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
With only three games on Thursday, there was ample time to delve into the latest injury news and its implications for fantasy managers.
Injury Updates and Their Impact
Miles Bridges’ knee injury is a significant concern. After initially returning to play, he’s now sidelined for at least two weeks with a knee bone bruise. This situation opens up opportunities for other players. With Nick Richards and Mark Williams also out, Taj Gibson steps in as the starting centre. Grant Williams, who has been getting centre minutes, will likely shift to playing more at the four, alongside Tidjane Salaun. This reshuffling could push Williams into a more prominent role, making him a potential pick-up in 12-team leagues.
The absence of Bridges also means increased usage for Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. Tre Mann is another player to watch; holding onto him could be beneficial as the team adjusts to these injuries.
Ja Morant’s hamstring injury is another blow, with expectations of a two-week absence. Memphis’ injury reporting is notoriously vague, so fantasy managers should prepare for an extended period without Morant. Tyrese Maxey’s situation is similar, with the Sixers indicating a reevaluation in a week, but realistically, it could be longer. Kyle Lowry is a suitable replacement in the meantime.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Bucks podcasts.
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