The Raptors really have the Milwaukee Bucks’ number this season. Even with their best player in their line-up, the Greek Giannis Antetokounmpo, they could not resist the team from the Queen City, which won 103 to 96 on Saturday evening at the Fiserv Forum.
Nick Nurse’s squad ensured they remained perfect against the reigning NBA champions, winning all three games this season between the two teams. The last time was on January 5, when the Bucks had to manage without Antetokounmpo, who was sick.
Although the victory was hotly contested until the end, the two-time NBA best player rose to the top with 30 points, six rebounds and four assists.
It’s the same point total as Pascal Siakam, who led the Raptors in this chapter, but who also added 10 rebounds and 10 assists for the triple-double, the second of his career.
Heavy artillery
The Bucks got the home game off to a good start, building a nine-point lead after 12 minutes. This lead faded somewhat before halftime and on the way back from the break, it was the Raptors who imposed their dominance.
Toronto stayed the course thanks to the multiple shots from three points made by its players. Siakam, Fred VanVleet and OG Anunoby have all made three. The latter has also made 13 attempts from the city center.
Quebec’s Chris Boucher was no exception, himself driving two baskets from the three-point line to finish with 15 points and seven rebounds.
Present the day before against the Detroit Pistons despite a knee injury, first-year player Scottie Barnes could not be in the lineup this time. Montrealer Khem Birch, who injured his nose in the first quarter on Friday, and Gary Trent Jr. were also missing.
However, it went less well for Barnes’ replacement in the lineup, Yuta Watanabe, who made several mistakes. After only 5 min 20 s on the floor, the Japanese was confined to the bench.
The Raptors (21-19) are guaranteed to reach mid-season with at least a .500 record. They return to action on Monday against the Miami Heat.
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