Milwaukee Bucks: Takeaways from 116-92 Game 3 win over Boston Celtics

Bledsoe and Parker rebound

Eric Bledsoe and Jabari Parker faced strong pressure following their poor play in the first two games and recent frustrated comments to the media. Substandard performances may have brought fans’ disappointment with the two players to the highest level yet.

However, Bledsoe and Parker both rebounded to contribute to the all-around Bucks effort for a victory. Bledsoe tallied 17 points on 8-of-13 shooting, and Parker contributed 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting.

Perhaps more importantly, both players provided much improved physicality and focus on the defensive end. Parker, despite some miscommunications on switches and a couple of poor contests, had a strong defensive game staying attached to Celtics players and executing switches.

His offensive contributions included a transition alley-oop dunk, a monstrous putback slam, and the return of #BaselineBari.

In an important stretch with Giannis resting for a couple minutes in the third quarter, Parker took over for seven straight points. He scored on a layup against Al Horford after obtaining interior position, a driving lefty lay-in against Aron Baynes, and a catch-and-shoot three in the corner.

The forward saw his minutes increase from 10 in Game 2 to 30 in Game 3 because he was more focused and effective in the minutes he played.

Bledsoe recorded his second foul less than four minutes into the game. Fortunately, he settled down after that, avoiding foul trouble and canning numerous mid-range jumpers.

This game offered a glimpse into the tantalizing vision of trotting out four talented offensive players and being able to keep at least two on the court at all times. It also provided hope that Parker has the potential to be a good enough defender.

Bledsoe and Parker’s performances in Games 1 and 2 are not excused. The game film they produced in those games is part of the body of their work. But their performances can be forgiven if they build on what they did in Game 3.