Bucks Face Clippers Post All-Star Break in Critical Showdown

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Milwaukee Bucks return to action tonight after the All-Star break as they host the Los Angeles Clippers at Fiserv Forum. The Bucks last played on February 12 in Minnesota, where they secured a victory despite being without star players Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Milwaukee, currently sitting at 29-24, experienced a rough entry into the break, losing their last game to the Clippers 89-80 at the Inuit Dome in Inglewood, California. During that match, the Clippers outscored Milwaukee by 16 points in the third quarter. Bucks’ defense struggled greatly, allowing 39 points in that frame, predominantly from the trio of James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac.

“We have to come out stronger in the second half,” said Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer after the game in Inglewood. “The third quarter has been a problem for us consistently, and it needs to change if we want to compete for a championship.”

However, Milwaukee showed signs of resilience as they found their rhythm following the All-Star break. In their previous outing against Minnesota, the Bucks turned a one-point deficit into a seven-point lead with a strong 17-5 run, highlighted by Brook Lopez sinking three three-pointers. Lopez’s performance was crucial in shifting the momentum, especially after the Clippers struggled to respond with only 2 for 8 shooting during that stretch.

Damian Lillard, who was listed as questionable for tonight’s game after suffering an injury in Charlotte, expressed optimism about his return. “I feel good and will see how it goes as we progress through warm-ups,” Lillard stated during practice on Wednesday. His presence is vital; the Bucks went 3-3 without him in the last six games leading to the break.

Giannis Antetokounmpo, who is also active tonight, is facing a minutes restriction as he returns from injury. He managed just three points in five minutes during the previous game’s first quarter. The Bucks will need their key players to contribute significantly, especially with the absence of Bobby Portis, who has been suspended for violating the league’s anti-drug policy.

With Portis out, the Bucks’ frontcourt depth is tested once more. If Antetokounmpo is limited or unable to play, the team’s primary options will be Lopez, Jericho Sims, and Kuzma. Sims has yet to make his debut for Milwaukee since being acquired at the trade deadline.

The game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. and will be broadcast locally on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin featuring Lisa Byington, Marques Johnson, and Melanie Ricks on the call. Milwaukee enters tonight’s game as a 1.5-point underdog against the Clippers, with the over/under set at 227.5 points according to BetMGM.