After a lengthy absence from Fiserv Forum, the Milwaukee Bucks returned to Wisconsin and opened up a six-game home stand with a rematch of the recently-dispatched Portland Trail Blazers. Unfortunately, missing Giannis Antetokounmpo meant that the hometown heroes were stretched even thinner than usual, and the Blazers were able to waltz their way to a double-digit victory.
As a data point for the team’s postseason chances, or what areas require attention, this contest is almost useless. No Giannis (late scratch with ankle soreness), no Pat Connaughton (hand) or Brook Lopez (back) or George Hill (neck), no Giannis, the first game without Donte DiVincenzo (who produced 12 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 steals in a loss with the Kings) and the first game with Serge Ibaka (more on him in a bit), and did I mention no Giannis?