Bucks Missing Key Players
Facing a Milwaukee Bucks team without star players Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, the Indiana Pacers exploded for a franchise-record 22 three-pointers in a 126-113 home victory, taking a commanding 3-1 series lead in the first round of the playoffs.
Turner’s Record-Breaking Performance
Pacers center Myles Turner led the charge with 29 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 blocks, shooting an impressive 7-of-9 from beyond the arc. He joined the ranks of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Lillard as the fourth player in nearly 20 NBA seasons to record at least 7 three-pointers and 3 blocks in a playoff game.
Haliburton’s Contribution
Tyrese Haliburton added 24 points, setting a new career-high in postseason scoring. Nine of his points came in the pivotal third quarter, where the Pacers outscored the Bucks 31-21 to extend their lead. In the fourth quarter, the Bucks struggled to mount a comeback, ultimately falling short by 13 points.
Turner’s Strategy
“After the first game, we watched a lot of film, and I saw some gaps in the defense where I knew we could take advantage of open shooting opportunities,” Turner said. “A big part of it is just reading the game and reacting. That’s how our offense operates.”
Bucks’ Efforts
Khris Middleton contributed 25 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists for the Bucks, but he faced foul trouble for much of the second half. Brook Lopez scored 27 points and grabbed 9 rebounds, while Malik Beasley added 20 points off the bench. However, Bobby Portis was ejected after just 7 minutes of play following an altercation with Andrew Nembhard, receiving 2 technical fouls.
Facing Elimination
With their loss, the Bucks find themselves on the brink of elimination, needing to win the next game to avoid a second consecutive first-round exit in the playoffs. (Nice88)