Rockets vs. Bucks Post-Game 12/17/23

Rockets’ Streak Comes to a Halt in 128-119 Loss to Bucks

Faltering Defense.    Deadly Duo.    On to Cleveland.

Houston started stronger in Milwaukee, trailing by seven points after the first period. They would fall behind by double-digits, rally to cut the deficit to only three points. However, the Bucks had too much firepower, as they ended the Rockets streak by dealing them a 128-119 loss on Sunday night. The defeat ends Houston’s five game winning streak, but the Rockets will have a chance to bounce back quickly as they play again tomorrow night. After allowing on average 105 points a game, good for second in the league, Houston’s defense faltered in Milwaukee, as they allowed the Bucks to explode for 128 points. And the Rockets were not bad by any means in this game offensively. The squad had six players score at least 16 points in a balanced attack, but in the end, Giannis Antetohounmpo and Damian Lillard were too dominant offensively for Houston to outscore the offensive firepower that are the Bucks.

Giannis and Dame combined for 64 points. Lillard led the way for Milwaukee with 39, and proved no matter what jersey he’s wearing, he’ll always be a Rocket-killer. Fred VanVleet led Houston with 22 points, and Alperen Sengun scored 20 in a bounce-back game after two subpar performances. But the Bucks showed why they’re legitimate favorites to win the NBA Championship in June. The Rockets at least made the Bucks beat them, and the refs had another terrible night. Dillon Brooks and Head Coack Ime Udoka were both ejected in the game, after arguing a terrible call near the end of the contest.

Houston needs to move on from this loss, and quickly. They’re back in action on Monday night, as they travel to Cleveland to face the Cavaliers on the second half of this back-to-back. The Cavs are a much more beatable team than this Milwaukee team Houston just squared off against. And Cleveland is missing a few key pieces due to injury. It’ll be the Rockets third game in four nights, but if the squad can get off to a strong start, the have a great chance to get back on the winning track on Monday night.