Mar 7, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks guard Jerryd Bayless (19) drives for the basket between Washington Wizards guard Ramon Sessions (7) and forward Drew Gooden (90) in the fourth quarter at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Reactions: The Good
There were at least a dozen moments in the game when you couldn’t help but think “This is when we miss Brandon Knight”. Knight provided the Bucks clutch scoring, something they’ve missed since the trade. Tonight Khris Middleton went off. His career-high 30 points accounted for just under a third of the Buck’s total scoring. His six three pointers (6-9) were the most he’s made in one game the entire season, and his nine rebounds cannot be ignored. Oh yeah, he also hit three HUGE three-pointers down the stretch. The third helped seal the game for the Bucks–check it out.
- Former Bucks great Bob Dandridge was honored by the team at halftime by having his #10 jersey retired. The ceremony was both poignant and well executed. You can check it out in it’s entirety right here.
- The Bucks have struggled mightily with rebounding this entire season. Tonight, instead of attempting to rebound the ball outright, the Bucks used their incredible length to tip the ball to teammates. The Bucks, while long, are generally slight of frame. That leads to them getting bullied on the glass. What’s the best way to circumvent that problem while using your own physical gifts? Tipping the ball. So easy, so effective.
- This Michael Carter-Williams kid might work out after all. He buoyed the Buck’s blazing 16-6 start with six assists. He finished the game with nine total assists, flashing both his prodigious court-vision and his ability on the fast break. He looked every part the point guard that the Bucks need if they are to compete for a championship. He passed first while scoring when the opportunity presented itself. Here he is slipping right past John Wall.
- Who is Chris Johnson? In a word–good. The Buck’s most recent 10-day contract was brought in for one reason and one reason only–scoring. Johnson didn’t disappoint. He scored seven points on 3-5 shooting, including one three pointer. He shot with confidence and showed extreme hustle. The Bucks need a scorer and Johnson showed that he is just that. He should help bridge the scoring gap until O.J. Mayo returns to action.
- Aside from the 16-1 run the Bucks played excellent defense. They limited the Wizards to just .383 on 31-81 shooting and 9-28 from three point range. More importantly they limited John Wall to just eleven points on 3-14 shooting, and Paul Pierce to fourteen points on 4-15 shooting. That’s 7-29 allowed to an opponents best two players.
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