Bucks Surprise Short-Handed Celtics; Rockets Beat Clippers

The Milwaukee Bucks secured a significant victory over the Boston Celtics this Thursday, with a final score of 116-101, ending the Celtics’ five-game winning streak. Despite injuries, including Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks demonstrated their resilience. Kyle Kuzma led the Bucks’ offense with 31 points. Kevin Porter Jr. had an outstanding performance with a triple-double, adding 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists. Bobby Portis Jr., from the bench, contributed 27 points. The Celtics, despite 30 points from Jaylen Brown and 20 from Jordan Walsh, couldn’t maintain their pace in the second half. They dominated by 14 points in the first half, but their performance declined, especially with 23 missed three-point attempts after halftime.

They hit us early, but in the third quarter our defense was phenomenal.

Doc Rivers, Bucks coach

Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged his team’s lack of execution in the second half, especially when the Bucks intensified their defense.

Rockets vs. Clippers

In another notable encounter, the Houston Rockets defeated the LA Clippers with a score of 115-113. Alperen Sengun was key for the Rockets, recording 22 points and 15 rebounds. The game was close, with both teams fighting for the lead. James Harden tied the score, but Amen Thompson secured the victory for Houston with a crucial shot. Kevin Durant, although discreet in the first half, finished with 14 points. For the Clippers, Ivica Zubac shined with 33 points, and Kawhi Leonard contributed 24 points and nine rebounds, but they couldn’t avoid the defeat.

Other Results

The Denver Nuggets defeated the Sacramento Kings with a score of 136-103. Nikola Jokic, with 36 points, 12 rebounds and 8 assists, led the Nuggets. The New Orleans Pelicans snapped a seven-game losing streak by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers with a score of 143-120. Sidy Cissoko set his personal NBA record with 20 points.