Giannis eyes triple-double as Bucks lead Wizards 92-86 after third quarter

On By Littum

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The Milwaukee Bucks (9-9) take a five-game winning streak into tonight’s game against the Washington Wizards (2-15), who have lost 13 straight.

The Bucks can’t quite shake the worst team in the league, as they lead 92-86 after three quarters. Giannis Antetokounmpo has 35 points, nine rebounds and nine assists, while Damian Lillard has added 21 points. But after going up double digits on two separate occasions early in the third, the Wizards have been able to stay connected by shooting 50% from the floor and scoring 56 paint points.

Lillard hit a buzzer beater to end the half to help the Bucks take a 63-58 lead on the Wizards at halftime. Antetokounmpo had 20 points (on 7-of-11 shooting), seven assists and five rebounds. Lillard has 18 points and AJ Green has 10 off the bench for Milwaukee.

Jordan Poole scored 17 for Washington, while former Bucks point guard Malcolm Brogdon added a dozen.

Antetokounmpo scored 15 points in the first quarter, but Washington took a 29-28 lead after the first 12 minutes behind 12 from Poole. Washington also scored five points off four offensive rebounds.

Milwaukee looks to climb above .500 for the first time since winning the season opener on Oct. 23.

Is Giannis playing tonight?

Giannis Antetokounmpo will play with tendinopathy in his right patella — an improvement from Tuesday, when he was a late scratch with swelling in his left knee. He was also originally listed with a left calf strain. He has been dealing with the pain in his right knee all season.

What channel is Bucks on?

The game tips off at 7:00 PM and will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin with Lisa Byington, Steve Novak and Melanie Ricks on the call.

More: Why Bucks’ Bobby Portis changed his outlook on the game but has more confidence than ever

Bucks starters

  • Guards: Damian Lillard, Andre Jackson Jr.
  • Forwards: Giannis Antetokounmpo, Taurean Prince
  • Center: Brook Lopez

Bucks vs. Wizards odds, over/under

Milwaukee is a 15.5-point favorite over Washington, and the over/under is 230.5 points per game. BetMGM.