5 Studs, 1 dud from Milwaukee Bucks' resilient Game 5 win over Pacers

Stud - Khris Middleton

With Antetokounmpo and Lillard both missing time, Khris Middleton has had to shoulder a significant workload in this series despite nursing injuries of his own. The veteran forward poured in 29 points, the second-most he's scored in the five games this first-round matchup has had to offer thus far, 12 boards and five assists.

In what was yet another complete game, Middleton showed off his difficult shot-making skills with an array of tough jumpers while also being sure to get his teammates in on the action. His main defender, Aaron Nesmith, logged five fouls in the contest, struggling to stick with Middleton as he showed off his arsenal on the offensive end. This was exactly what the Bucks needed from their star forward.

Stud - Pat Connaughton

In a series where their bench has largely struggled, the Milwaukee Bucks needed someone among the reserve unit to step up to give themselves a shot in Game 5. Pat Connaughton answered the call, delivering an all-around impactful performance that showed shades of 2021 Connaughton, who was a playoff hero for the team.

Connaughton's fingerprints were all over this game, as he chipped in nine points, four rebounds, four assists, two steals and a blocked shot. That block, a stunning blocked 3-point try at the third-quarter buzzer, certainly had Fiserv Forum rocking, providing some momentum that carried over into the final frame. There's no denying Connaughton was a much-needed jack of all trades in Game 5.