Bucks lose Giannis, then collapse in Cleveland

The first minutes of the game belong to Giannis Antetokounmpo, which will make the scenario of the match even more cruel for the Bucks. Milwaukee is off to an 11-2 start and “Greek Freak” is everywhere, either on the pass or at the end of the actions. The result, the Bucks are launched and dominate the first act (26-33). The answer comes from Donovan Mitchell, who also seems to be in good shape. Kyle Kuzma ends the first half well and the debates are balanced (59-57).

Then, surprise, after returning from the locker room, Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the floor! He was shot in the groin and did not want to return. Milwaukee will therefore play 24 minutes without their two-time MVP. During the third quarter it was still held (92-88). But in the face of game-winning baskets from Kenny Atkinson’s men, especially those from Sam Merrill, Doc Rivers’ men buckled. They never fell, they can’t even win anymore and they lost 118-106.

WHAT TO REMEMBER

– Giannis Antetokounmpo loses in the second half. This is clearly the turning point of the game. In 13 minutes, the Greek scored 14 points, plus 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Playing a half without him, against a team like Cleveland, it’s not the same thing at all. While Rivers wasn’t reassuring, talking about an upcoming MRI and a left groin injury that seemed serious.

– Sam Merrill’s award-winning baskets. Faced with a greatly diminished opponent, the Cavaliers gradually took control of the game. Without breaking up debates, but also without nervousness. And Merrill’s 3-pointers helped the most, who finished this victory with 6 successes from behind the arc, including 5 in the second half.

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How to read statistics? Min = Minute; Shots = Shots Successful / Shots Attempted; 3 points = 3 points / attempt 3 points; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive jump; T = Total number of jumps; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal mistakes; Int = intercepts; Bp = lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = Difference of points when the player is on the field; Points = Points; Rating: player rating calculated based on positive actions – negative actions.