Bucks Bench Ignites in Dominant Win Over Pelicans
The Milwaukee Bucks showcased their depth in a commanding 139-118 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, elevating their record to 24-30. The spotlight was on the bench, which erupted for 69 points, despite the absence of stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Myles Turner.
Cam Thomas led the charge, matching the team-high with 27 points in just 21 minutes. Bobby Portis was his usual dependable self, contributing 17 points and 11 rebounds on an efficient 8-12 shooting. Pete Nance and Ousmane Dieng also made their presence felt, with Nance adding 10 points, five rebounds, and a couple of assists, while Dieng chipped in 10 points and posted a team-best plus-8 in the box score.
The starting lineup didn't miss a beat either, thanks to standout performances from Ryan Rollins and Kevin Porter Jr. Rollins was lethal from beyond the arc, hitting 7-10 and adding six assists, four steals, and two blocks, with just two turnovers. Porter Jr. was equally impressive, scoring 25 points on 10-15 shooting, dishing out seven assists, and securing two steals and a block, all while maintaining control with only one turnover.
Kyle Kuzma added a versatile 14 points, three rebounds, and four assists, including 2-5 from deep, rounding out a well-balanced offensive effort. The starters narrowly outscored the bench, 70-69, highlighting the team's depth and cohesion.
This victory marked the Bucks' second three-game win streak of the season, bookending a loss to Orlando earlier in the month. With or without their stars, Milwaukee looks poised to continue their momentum when they face off against the Toronto Raptors on Sunday.