The Milwaukee Bucks had a couple of days off following their Christmas Day win over the Boston Celtics before they headed off to Orlando to face the Magic.
It was a back and forth battle to start off the game, but the Bucks were able to take a hefty lead of 29 points at one point in the game. In the second half, the Magic however, was able to cut that lead to the single digits after rookie Franz Wagner put up 38 points (A career high).
Ultimately, the Bucks were able to stay on top and secure the win 127-110 on the road. This win marks the 10th consecutive win for Milwaukee over Orlando (7-28). Let’s look at some takeaways from Tuesday’s game.
Bobby Portis is starting to get hot again.
Bobby Portis, who played his second game back after being in health and safety protocols, got the starting role in Tuesday’s game. With his return, Portis has been doing some damage and lighting up the court. Within the first half, Bobby Portis was 5-for-5 in 3-point attempts and contributed 17 points for Milwaukee.
Having a player who is an amazing shooter from behind the arc like Portis is, really helps Milwaukee in taking the lead and obtaining a victory. In total, Bobby Portis tallied up 19 points with seven rebounds and an assist in the Bucks’ win. It’s great to see him back on the court.
Jrue Holiday continues to show why he should be an All-Star.
December has been Jrue Holiday’s month. While the start of his season was slow due to injuries and illness, Holiday turned everything up a notch and has been playing some amazing basketball. While the all-star game might be a little ways to go, Holiday has heightened his chances of being selected to represent Milwaukee.
From an offensive standpoint, Holiday went 8-for-13 (61.5%) in FGs, and was 1-for-3 in three-point shots made. He scored 18 points for the Bucks, while also handing 10 assists to his team. Within the fourth quarter, Holiday was able to score nine points in a little under three minutes; Attacking the basket and closing in on the Magic to prevent them from scoring really helped his teammates as Holiday got his fourth double-double of the season. Nonetheless, should Holiday continue this hot streak, 2022 might be a dangerous year for the Bucks’ opponents with him on the court.
Donte DiVincenzo is still trying to find that groove upon his return.
Christmas Day was the first time this season that Donte DiVincenzo stepped foot on the court with his Bucks teammates; A severe ankle injury last season in the first round of the playoffs kept him from joining the team sooner.
In his 15 minutes of play on Tuesday, DiVincenzo went 1-for-5 in FG attempts, and 1-for-5 in 3-point attempts. He was however, able to aid the team and get six rebounds, but ultimately only contributed 10 points to the Bucks’ victory. He’s got a long ways to go to returning back to that starting lineup, but, it is only his second game back. The focus for DiVincenzo is gaining that rhythm back and making up for time loss due to his surgery.
Looking Ahead…
The Milwaukee Bucks will look to continue their winning streak as they play the Magic once again on Thursday. Tip off is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. CST on Bally Sports Wisconsin.
