Bucks vs. Raptors Final Score and Summary: Giannis drops 23 points in win

On November 13, 2024By Littum

In the first NBA Cup action of the year, Milwaukee knocked off the Bucks Toronto Raptors99-85.

With Damian Lillard sidelined due to concussion protocol, Milwaukee had a unique starting lineup consisting of AJ Green and Ryan Rollins. Despite the rarity among the starting five, the Bucks still got off to a strong start. However, the young flying Raptors hung around and cut the deficit to 26-21 entering the second quarter.

The 3-point difference between the two teams shaped up to be quite telling between the two teams as the second quarter continued. At halftime, the Bucks had attempted 31 3-point attempts compared to Toronto’s six. Despite that, Milwaukee’s lead wasn’t as big as you might have expected, as it stood at 54-43 at halftime.

In what has become an unfortunate tradition for the Bucks to kick off the year, they laid an absolute egg to begin the second half with Toronto clawing their way back into things. However, Milwaukee bounced back by securing another double-digit advantage through the defense led by Giannis Antetokounmpo. Heading into the final quarter, a Bobby Portis buzzer beater gave the Bucks an 81-67 lead.

From that point on, the Bucks’ lead never faced any real danger of being erased. They did a strong job of holding off Toronto and put the finishing touches on a much-needed win. When the buzzer sounded, Milwaukee cruised to a 99-85 victory.

State that stood out

What about Ryan Rollins? He’s been rising through the ranks lately, and with Damian Lillard sidelined in this one, Doc Rivers decided to throw him in the deep end by inserting him into the starting lineup. He wasn’t perfect, but he showed a range of skills, including some nice shots from deep. Despite finishing late in the third quarter with left shoulder instability, his presence was felt in this one, finishing with 12 shots — all coming from the 3-pointer. It will be interesting to see his usage develop.