Milwaukee Bucks: Takeaways from 120-116 loss to the Houston Rockets

Milwaukee Bucks: Takeaways from 120-116 loss to the Houston Rockets – Donte’s rushing and dragging

It’s fair to say Donte DiVincenzo has enjoyed better nights throughout his breakout sophomore season

Coming off a solid, if not spectacular night in the Bucks’ win over the Boston Celtics last time out, the 23-year-old was searching to make his mark Sunday night. He did, but it was far from in a positive sense.

DiVincenzo’s time in Orlando has seen the second-year guard struggle to rein in the raw power, athleticism, and balls-to-the-wall energy he always brings to the floor, and that’s been especially evident with the struggles he’s shown with the ball in his hands.

Whether it’s been looking to set up plays at the top of the key or just in the general flow of the offense, the Villanova product’s precision and timing has been way off and has led to the opposing team gobbling up the ball and promptly pushing it the other way. Through the first two games in Orlando, DiVincenzo has more turnovers (7) than assists (4).

Not meeting the Bucks’ tempo, DiVincenzo’s driving and overall spark-plug scoring has shown through from time to time in each of the last two games. But with starting point guard Eric Bledsoe sidelined and George Hill struggling in his own right, DiVincenzo’s struggles with securing the ball and making plays have contributed to their turnover problem so far.

All in all, DiVincenzo posted nine points on 4-for-10 shooting from the field (1-for-6 from three), five turnovers, two steals, a board and an assist each in 23 minutes of action.

Bucks fans have waited for some time to see DiVincenzo play on the big stage and he was in such a good rhythm when the season left off. Through these two games, DiVincenzo looks to be far away from the form that had made his progress such an exciting development this season.

The Bucks will look to bounce back Tuesday afternoon when they take on the Brooklyn Nets for a 12.30 tip-off and Bucks fans will be able to catch the action on NBA TV, or Fox Sports Wisconsin for those living locally.