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

Bucks players shine

There was a lot to like. Khris Middleton continued his excellent recent play, scoring 21 points on an economical 9-of-14 from the field, including 2-of-3 on three pointers. He appears to be in the zone when it comes to shooting the ball.

In this game, the former Aggie had a knack for hitting tough shots in the first half that kept Milwaukee’s momentum going. He also pitched in two steals, doing his part on the way to holding the Nets to 91 points on the night.

John Henson’s double-double was a sight for sore eyes. After the horrible rebounding showing the Bucks put forth against Philadelphia last weekend, the Bucks front court should be looking in the mirror. Henson did his part on the evening, snaring 10, as Milwaukee’s 44 boards were right there with Brooklyn’s 45.

Eric Bledsoe and Thon Maker are not typically spoken of in the same context, but tonight they both stood out for the way that they alternated between helping and hurting the team.

Bledsoe managed to score in double figures (14 points) but exhibited some very poor shot selection down the stretch that extended the meaningful part of the game. His defense and energy were often fantastic, and he continues to be a very exciting player that can make almost anything happen, for better or worse.

The confidence that Maker has been showing in his jumper lately has been impressive. As underwhelming as he has been this season, to see a man of his height and athleticism comfortably catch and shoot as he did several times this evening (11 points on 4-of-8) is something to behold.

It is hard not to believe in his potential, and yet, there are so many times throughout the course of a game when he gets in over his head on offense, or gets lost or bodied on defense. Against the Nets, it seemed like every time he put the ball on the floor it went poorly, and his defense in the paint was very inconsistent.

On a night like tonight, however, there is reason to be glad that the Thon Maker experiment continues.

Next: Win In 6 Podcast #179: Players react to Jason Kidd’s firing

The Bucks will next be in action when they visit the Chicago Bulls on Sunday afternoon at the United Center.