Bucks Surprise Short-Handed Celtics; Rockets Beat Clippers in Dramatic Finish

The Milwaukee Bucks secured a significant victory over the Boston Celtics this Thursday, with a final score of 116-101. This triumph not only halted the Celtics’ five-game winning streak but also demonstrated the Bucks’ resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the two-time MVP, due to a calf injury, the Bucks found in Kyle Kuzma their main offensive figure, who scored 31 points. Kevin Porter Jr. also stood out with a triple-double, adding 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists. Bobby Portis Jr., from the bench, contributed 27 crucial points for the team. The Celtics, led by Jaylen Brown with 30 points and Jordan Walsh with 20, had a 14-point lead at one point and went into halftime with a 67-60 advantage. However, their performance declined in the second half, especially in three-point shots, missing 23 of 26 attempts. The Bucks took advantage of this situation, dominating the third quarter with a score of 27-13, which allowed them to take control of the game.

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.

We had good moments, but we weren’t sharp when they increased the pressure.

Joe Mazzulla, Celtics coach

Rockets Beat Clippers in a Close Match

In Los Angeles, the Houston Rockets secured a narrow 115-113 victory over the LA Clippers. Alperen Sengun led the Rockets with an outstanding performance, accumulating 22 points and 15 rebounds. The game remained close throughout the match, with neither team managing to gain a significant lead. James Harden tied the score at 110-110 with 37.1 seconds remaining, but Amen Thompson secured the victory for the Rockets with a crucial shot. Kevin Durant, although discreet in the first half, reacted in the second half and finished the game with 14 points. For the Clippers, Ivica Zubac shone with 33 points and Kawhi Leonard contributed 24 points and nine rebounds, but they could not avoid the defeat. The Clippers are now in 14th place in the West.

Nuggets and Pelicans Shine on the Day

The Denver Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic, dominated the Sacramento Kings with a score of 136-103. Jokic, the three-time MVP, proved his worth with 36 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. The New Orleans Pelicans snapped a seven-game losing streak by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers with a score of 143-120. Sidy Cissoko, coming off the bench, set his NBA career high with 20 points, while Ryan Rupert contributed 14 points.