Milwaukee Bucks: 3 takeaways from 129-105 loss to L.A. Clippers

Giannis Antetokounmpo shows signs of progress for the Milwaukee Bucks

After having rested in the Bucks’ loss to the New York Knicks last time out, Giannis Antetokounmpo wanted to shake off some rust.

That was apparent by his hot start from the opening tip as he cracked double digits nearly seven minutes into the night, which was helped by Antetokounmpo cashing in his pair of triples for the night. However, Antetokounmpo’s hot start quickly went cold as the first half progressed as he uncharacteristically struggled converting bunnies at the basket and showed some passiveness when similar opportunities presented themselves.

While the Bucks struggled to find any answers in terms of slowing down the Clippers, Antetokounmpo bounced back as he started to put his head down again towards the rim again. That, in turn, generated trips to the free throw line and eventually helped him score more points than his last two appearances combined.

All in all, Antetokounmpo finished with a game-high 32 points on 10-for-21 shooting (2-for-5 from three, 10-for-12 from the free throw line), six rebounds, three assists, two turnovers and a block in more than 33-and-a-half minutes of action.

Again, it wasn’t a perfect performance from Antetokounmpo and the Bucks would do well in trying to ease the burden on his shoulders by increasing his usage as a screener and generating easier looks for him against a rotating defense. However, with his legs under him, the 26-year-old will put down the very scores that are automatic to him.

The Bucks will look for a much-needed victory when they take on the Los Angeles Lakers Wednesday night for a 9 p.m. CST tilt. You can catch the action on ESPN where it will be nationally televised.