For the last three weeks, the Milwaukee Bucks looked like a ship without a rudder. Drifting through an abysmal 3-11 stretch without their captain, the team desperately needed a spark to salvage a season that felt like it was slipping away before the New Year. On Saturday night in Chicago, they didn’t just get a spark; they got the whole fire back.
Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from an eight-game absence due to a right calf strain, and his presence was immediate and undeniable. Dropping 29 points and grabbing eight rebounds in just 25 minutes of action, the Greek Freak led Milwaukee to a gritty 112-103 victory, snapping the Bulls’ five-game winning streak and reminding the Eastern Conference that Milwaukee isn’t done yet.
The Difference Maker Returns
The Bucks are now 9-8 with Antetokounmpo in the lineup, compared to that ugly record without him.
He wasted no time shaking off the rust. Antetokounmpo was efficient and aggressive early, pouring in 15 points on 7-for-9 shooting in the first half alone. His gravity opened up the floor, allowing the offense to breathe in a way it hasn’t since early December. While he confirmed post-game that he’ll be on a minutes restriction for the next “5-10 games,” his impact per minute was off the charts.
Rollins and Portis Provide the Punch
While the headlines belong to Giannis, this win wasn’t a solo act. The supporting cast, perhaps emboldened by the return of their leader, stepped up in crucial moments. Ryan Rollins was a revelation, scoring 20 points, grabbing seven boards, and dishing out five assists.