The Milwaukee Bucks failed to capitalize on a hot 3-point shooting start as they struggled mightily after the first few minutes
What helped propel the Bucks’ early double-digit lead was their prolific 3-point shooting, as they went 6-for-9 from behind the arc in the opening quarter. It looked like the champs were bound to have a hot shooting night following that opening period, but that hope quickly faded away as they proceeded to shoot a downright horrific 3-of-23 from deep over the final three quarters.
Middleton and Pat Connaughton were the most successful, combining to shoot 6-of-13 from deep for the game. Aside from them, it was ugly to watch. DiVincenzo made just one triple in five tries, Portis made one in four attempts, Antetokounmpo made one in three attempts, Nwora missed all three of his, while Hill and Holiday missed two apiece without a single make. The Bucks will not be winning too many games when they have such a poor shooting night, particularly when they allow their opponent to let it fly with little resistance.
The Cavaliers were scorching hot from three as they shot 19-of-42 from deep, with contributions coming from all over the roster. Unsurprisingly, most of it was done by the Love-Osman tandem off the bench, as they combined to shoot 11-of-23 from 3-point range. The pair were often just left wide open and they consistently made the Bucks pay time and time again. The Bucks’ 3-point defense has always been a concern, and it certainly was a hot topic of discussion once again last night.
Given the chance to climb in the standings and in the Central Division, this one will hurt for the Bucks, but they must learn from it and move forward.
They will aim to get back on the right track as they take on the New York Knicks in a rare night game at Fiserv Forum this Friday. Be sure to catch the action at 9:00 p.m. CST on ESPN.