Following a Christmas Day thriller against the Boston Celtics, the Milwaukee Bucks were back in action last night as they squared off against the Orlando Magic.
After some back and forth battling early, the Bucks assumed full control of the game and built up a lead as large as 29 points. Yet, the severely shorthanded Magic showcased their resiliency during a spirited run in the second half that helped them get back into the game. Largely thanks to rookie Franz Wagner, who had himself a career night with 38 points, Orlando cut Milwaukee’s lead to just single digits several times during the half. Despite the Magic’s best efforts, the Bucks managed to hold them off in the end and spoil Wagner’s big night by securing the 127-110 road victory. It was a wildly turbulent matchup, and let us take a closer look at three takeaways that it produced.
Bobby Portis paved the way as the Milwaukee Bucks shot the lights out from long range
The Bucks started this game firing on all cylinders from 3-point range, which was a massive factor in their early double-digit lead. They finished 17-of-37 (45.9 percent) for the game, riding the hot hand all the way to victory. Khris Middleton, Pat Connaughton, and George Hill all did their part as they knocked down two triples each, but the most impressive shooter in the game was none other than Bobby Portis, who had an incredible first half in his return to the starting five.
Portis, who was playing in his second game back in the lineup after spending time in the league’s health and safety protocols, was fantastic for the Bucks. He was flawless from 3-point range by knocking down five shots in five attempts. One of the best things about Portis is that he is such a great shooter from behind the arc, and he is more than capable of catching fire. His 5-for-5 night from 3-point range helped him tally 19 points while also pulling down seven rebounds in the win. The Bucks are certainly glad to have him back after his recent absence, and he looks like he has not missed a beat.
Though the Bucks have been known as a reputable outside shooting team over the past several years, there are nights where they just cannot buy a bucket from long distance. Thankfully, last night was not one of them. When the Bucks are shooting the three-ball with that efficiency, it is beyond challenging to defeat them, no matter the opponent. Hopefully Portis and the rest of the Bucks can find some momentum from this performance and carry it over to the next game, which will be against the Magic as well.