Damian Lillard Scores 35, Wows NBA Fans; Bucks Top Haliburton, Pacers Without Giannis
Many wondered how the Milwaukee Bucks would fare in their first-round matchup against the Indiana Pacers without Giannis Antetokounmpo. Damian Lillard made sure they fared well.
The star point guard led the Bucks to a 109-94 win over the Pacers behind a 35-point outburst, handling business with Antetokounmpo sidelined with a strained calf.
Lillard got off to a blazing start with 19 points in the first quarter alone. He finished the first half with 35 points, giving Milwaukee a comfortable 69-42 lead. Lillard's scoring stalled in the second half with the Pacers bringing double teams, but with a sizeable lead, the Bucks didn't need much from him to pick up the win.
Lillard's big scoring night drew plenty of praise from NBA fans in awe of his performance.
Now Milwaukee is in charge in the first-round series despite missing Antetokounmpo. The win has to give Bucks fans confidence and reassurance that they can manage until Antetokounmpo is back on the floor.
If Milwaukee can get past Indiana without Antetokounmpo, it will be in great shape to make a Finals run when he can return.
The second game of the best-of-seven series between the Bucks and the Pacers will take place Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
