Damian Lillard and Bobby Portis led the Milwaukee Bucks to a dominant 146-114 victory over the Detroit Pistons, extending the Pistons’ losing streak to 23 consecutive games.
Lillard and Portis Lead Bucks to Dominant Victory, Extending Pistons’ 23-Game Losing Streak
Lillard scored 33 points, while Portis contributed a season-high 31 points. The Bucks achieved their highest point total of the season and secured their most lopsided victory. The game saw the Bucks establish a commanding 24-point lead in the first quarter, and they maintained their dominance throughout. Lillard played a pivotal role by scoring 13 consecutive points during a late first-period stretch.
Portis emphasized the importance of starting strong to avoid potential pitfalls in the game. He expressed satisfaction with how the team initiated the match by taking an early lead and maintaining control throughout, preventing the Pistons from making a comeback. The victory marked the Pistons’ 23rd consecutive loss, matching the NBA’s third-longest losing streak within the same season.
In his first game since scoring a franchise-record 64 points, Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed 22 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Portis also showcased his prowess on the boards, securing a season-high 12 rebounds. The Bucks coach, Adrian Griffin, commended the team’s leaders for their focused and serious approach to the game, highlighting the importance of their leadership.
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Bucks Extend Pistons’ Misery with Convincing Win, Securing Detroit’s 23rd Straight Loss
The Detroit Pistons, struggling throughout the season, faced another defeat one night after a 124-92 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers. Pistons coach Monty Williams expressed disappointment with the team’s lack of grit and toughness early in the game, necessitating an early timeout as the Bucks took a 32-17 lead in the first nine minutes. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 25 points, and Bojan Bogdanovic added 24.
The Bucks played without Malik Beasley due to a non-COVID illness, and Khris Middleton was held out as part of the team’s management of his surgically repaired right knee. Detroit missed Isaiah Stewart due to a sprained left shoulder. Despite these absences, MarJon Beauchamp made his first start of the season and contributed seven points at the beginning of the game. Bucks rookie Andre Jackson Jr. also made a rare start, achieving career highs with 10 points and eight rebounds.
The Bucks’ decisive victory over the Pistons showcased strong performances from Damian Lillard, Bobby Portis, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Pistons, facing challenges and inconsistency, suffered their 23rd consecutive loss, highlighting their struggles throughout the season.
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