The Milwaukee Bucks’ season is officially over after a heart-breaking loss to the Indiana Pacers Tuesday night.
But it wasn’t due to a lack of effort from Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had 30 points, 20 rebounds, 12 assists, two steals, and two blocks. It was the first 30/20/10/2/2 playoff game in NBA history.
He received strong shooting performances from Gary Trent Jr. and AJ Green, who combined for 52 points on 51.9 percent shooting from the arc. Still, Antetokounmpo was the headliner that kept Milwaukee alive most of the game, illustrated by the Pacers gaining traction in the minutes he was on the bench.
The Bucks had a seven-point lead with 40 seconds left in overtime, as they looked like they were going to pull off the upset and extend the series back to Milwaukee. However, late sloppy turnovers fueled Indiana’s comeback, giving them the series and once again sending the Bucks home early in the postseason.
This type of team performance only sparks the possibility of Antetokounmpo leaving this offseason. They have failed to make it past the first round for the third consecutive postseason, winning just one series since their 2021 championship run. The Damian Lillard era hasn’t elevated the Bucks as originally anticipated, and will mostly be remembered for the devastating injuries and coaching drama.
Let the trade rumors commence.
Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
MORE MILWAUKEE BUCKS NEWS
Bucks predicted to reclaim future by dealing Giannis Antetokounmpo to Western Conference powerhouse