Milwaukee Bucks: Takeaways from 116-91 win over Brooklyn Nets

He’s back! Giannis returns with a vengeance

As defenders sagged, packing the paint, Giannis rose up and stroked a confident jump shot. So ended Milwaukee’s first possession. With his second touch, the Greek Freak drove to the basket and drew a foul. It was already clear that he was out to control this game.

The Bucks were without their Greek star for the last two games, and the impact of Giannis on both ends of the floor in his return was absolutely striking. He was all over the court on defense, rebounded in traffic, and provided his usual scoring punch and then some.

His 41 points were felt most strongly in the first quarter as the Bucks built their initial lead, and in the fourth quarter as he helped close the door on the pesky, visiting Nets.

As usual, Giannis managed to stretch the box score to its limits. He finished the evening with 13 rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and two blocks.

Saving the best for last, the Bucks’ superstar upped his efficiency by shooting 10-of-11 from the charity stripe, and a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc.

Embracing his leadership role, Antetokounmpo closed out the game for the Bucks, hitting shots and drawing fouls as needed until the contest was finally out of reach. Deservedly, he was showered with MVP chants as he shot free throw after free throw in the final minutes.

In a game the Bucks basically dominated, why was Giannis even playing in the fourth quarter? The answer lies within a third quarter that the Bucks would rather forget.