Bucks Dominate Pelicans, Prepare for Playoffs in Upcoming Showdown

Milwaukee, Wis. — The Milwaukee Bucks secured their sixth consecutive victory with a convincing 136-111 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on April 10, 2025, at Fiserv Forum. The win positions them favorably in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, as they prepare for a critical back-to-back series against the Detroit Pistons.

Giannis Antetokounmpo led the charge for the Bucks, scoring 28 points and pulling down 11 rebounds in just 26 minutes of play. The Bucks comfortably controlled the game despite facing a Pelicans squad that was down to only eight players.

“First is going into the playoffs healthy,” Bucks coach Doc Rivers said. “We have an entire week after these two games to get ready for whoever our opponent is.” Rivers underscored the need for rest and preparation as they approach the postseason.

Initially, the game presented challenges for Milwaukee, as the Pelicans jumped out to an early lead. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl’s five points helped New Orleans establish a five-point lead, prompting a timeout from the Bucks with 7:54 remaining in the first quarter. By the end of the period, the Pelicans were up 26-21.

However, the Bucks regrouped quickly in the second quarter. Kevin Porter Jr. played a vital role in their comeback, scoring on consecutive possessions. Bobby Portis tied the game at 33-33 with a fadeaway jumper, and Kyle Kuzma contributed eight points during an 11-0 run, culminating in a 62-54 lead at halftime.

The third quarter showcased Antetokounmpo’s impact as he scored the first seven points of a decisive 24-14 run, helping the Bucks establish a commanding 100-85 lead heading into the final quarter. As the game was in hand, Rivers opted to rest both Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez, who exited with 2:41 left in the third quarter.

In addition to Antetokounmpo’s stellar performance, the Bucks benefited from significant contributions from their bench. Kevin Porter Jr. tallied 20 points and seven assists, marking his fourth consecutive game with 20 or more points. Kyle Kuzma and Gary Trent Jr. each added 17 points, while Portis and Ryan Rollins contributed 14 and 12 points, respectively. The Bucks’ bench effectively scored 70 points, showcasing their depth ahead of the playoffs.

The Pelicans had standout performances as well, with Lester Quinones scoring a career-high 21 points. Jamal Cain and Keion Brooks Jr. each added 20 points, demonstrating potential amidst a challenging season. Elfrid Payton complemented the scoring with 15 assists, highlighting the talent still present on New Orleans’ roster.

The final quarter saw the Bucks maintain a robust lead, outscoring the Pelicans 16-7 in the initial four minutes, ultimately winning by a margin of 25 points. The victory not only extended the Bucks’ winning streak but also solidified their playoff positioning.

With the Indiana Pacers and Detroit Pistons winning their games, Milwaukee is set to either be a fifth or sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. The Bucks will need to secure at least one win against the Pistons in their upcoming two-game series to clinch the fifth seed.

In reference to the upcoming games, Rivers remarked, “It’s going to be a great experience. I think the crowd in Detroit is going to be amazing. They’re going to play hard, and we’re going to have to match it. I can’t think of a better scenario going into the playoffs than this.”

Antetokounmpo acknowledged the importance of trust among teammates as they approach critical games. “You want to kind of like finish what you started. Have trust in my teammates; I know they can finish the game in a situation like that when my coaching staff told me to go in the back and get ready for the next game,” he said.

The Bucks’ next challenge arrives against the Pistons on April 11, followed by a rematch on April 13. With playoff positioning still up for grabs, both games are crucial as Milwaukee aims to secure a higher seed and prepare for a deep playoff run.