Damian Lillard led the Bucks with 30 points while Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 23 and had 14 rebounds.
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PHILADELPHIA – The match-up between the Bucks and the Sixers on the second night of Opening Week had league officials, fans, and networks buzzing with excitement.
However, the anticipation quickly faded as key players from both teams were sidelined due to injuries, creating a disappointing scenario where their rosters lacked the anticipated All-Star talent.
For Philadelphia, Joel Embiid (knee) and Paul George (knee) were both out, while Milwaukee missed Khris Middleton (bilateral ankle rehab). Each team faced a tough start to the new season, making it difficult to draw any significant conclusions from this game.
Despite these challenges, the game proceeded, and there were still insights to be gathered about both teams. Here are Five Takeaways from the Bucks’ 124-109 win at Wells Fargo Center:
1. Transitioning from ‘The Process’ to ‘The Plan’ in Philadelphia
In Philadelphia, “The Process” took root after the 76ers intentionally bottomed out a decade ago, a strategy aimed at improving their lottery standings and acquiring future superstars. While results were mixed, the plan did yield quality players like Embiid and, at one point, Ben Simmons, creating a foundation for seven consecutive playoff appearances.
Embiid has been the focal point for the franchise, but now he finds himself in what is referred to as “The Plan.” This label could be seen as premature regarding its longevity in Philadelphia, yet it is currently a hot topic:
With Embiid absent from Wednesday’s game and potentially missing more upcoming matches, he had been shut down for most of the preseason. Coach Nick Nurse stated that he did not re-injure himself during the Paris Olympics or afterward, indicating the team is following a structured rehabilitation protocol. This situation has reportedly caught the attention of the NBA, which is investigating for possible violations regarding the player participation policy agreed upon by the league and its players’ union.
Navigating this is challenging. “The plan is why he isn’t playing,” Nurse explained.
George’s absence is more straightforward, stemming from a recent injury.
hyperextended his left knee during a tune-up game. Some Sixers fans believe that having players out now is preferable to them being absent in the spring.
However, it’s hard to imagine that those who purchased tickets for the opener share that sentiment.
2. Giannis and Dame 2.0 off to a promising start
Last year, Damian Lillard arrived in Milwaukee, generating a great deal of excitement and a fair bit of chaos as the season was about to begin. Shortly thereafter, the Bucks decided to change coaches, dismissing Adrian Griffin and bringing in Doc Rivers. The transition was tumultuous, culminating in yet another first-round exit, with Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined against Indiana.
Both the forward and the guard, members of the NBA’s Top 75 elite, understood they were entering a critical season. In their opening game victory, they achieved the perfect synergy: Lillard contributed 30 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, while Antetokounmpo added 25 points, 14 rebounds, and seven assists.
Efforts to integrate their playing styles have been evident, and the absence of Middleton for a little while longer may aid in this process. Playing together is quite different from simply sharing the court.
“Things take time,” Lillard remarked following the win, marking Milwaukee’s third consecutive opening game victory over Philadelphia. “You’ve got to be comfortable. You need to understand each other. Our time last year, along with this summer—being in Milwaukee a bit earlier before camp and connecting—has been really beneficial.”
3. Maxey poised for another leap this season
If anyone can manage the burden of leading an NBA team in the absence of two future Hall of Famers, it’s Sixers star Tyrese Maxey. The agile guard made veteran James Harden redundant last season, earning accolades as the league’s 2024 Kia Most Improved Player and making his first All-Star appearance. He possesses the skill, youth (turning 24 on Nov. 4), confidence, and availability to position Embiid and George as complementary stars if he continues to develop.
“We recognize he has a strong drive game,” Nurse commented, “and he can shoot deep threes. Now, he should also utilize more of his mid-range game; I believe that’s an area where he can grow.”
Maxey scored 25 points but worked hard for them, shooting 10-of-31 and 2-of-9 from beyond the arc. Historically, he has been a more efficient scorer and is expected to return to that form. In the meantime, when he pushes the ball up the court, the energy and quickness he exudes resemble the excitement sparked by Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill on the football field.
4. Milwaukee’s depth may lead to major defensive success
A significant factor in Maxey’s challenging shooting night was Bucks guard Gary Trent Jr., a strategic signing during free agency known for his defensive prowess. Trent effectively made life difficult for the Sixers guard, providing Milwaukee with a stronger option against prolific scorers than they had last season.
With Trent, Taurean Prince, and Delon Wright on board, the Bucks are expected to see defensive improvements over last year’s rotational players, including Malik Beasley, Pat Beverley, and Jae Crowder.
“This is what I’ve focused on since entering the league,” Trent stated. “I’ve ranked in the top 10 for steals and deflections the past two or three seasons.”
“Our entire strategy centered around making it tough on [Maxey], starting with my pressure … It’s all about maintaining energy, pushing through challenges like illegal screens, or guys trying to hinder me, even with Lowry standing in my path.”
The Bucks boast a sizable lineup, featuring Brook Lopez, Bobby Portis, and Antetokounmpo on the court at any given time. Nurse even playfully admonished his players for challenging Lopez, who effectively balanced aggressive play with solid defense, achieving six blocks.
5. Sixers
The other part-time center will help
As Embiid adheres to The Plan and has indicated that he is unlikely to participate in both games of any back-to-back schedule, the question of where those minutes will be allocated is significant. Fortunately for Philadelphia, the signing of the formidable Andre Drummond in July went largely unnoticed. Drummond, a veteran with 12 years of experience and still just 31 years old, has had a varied career in recent seasons, marking his second stint with the Sixers.
During the last two years in Chicago, serving as a backup to Nikola Vučević, Drummond averaged 17.4 points and 18.9 rebounds per 36 minutes. These statistics surpass his pro-rated figures from his first eight seasons in Detroit, where he earned All-Star honors twice. In a game on Wednesday, Drummond contributed 10 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in 25 minutes of play.
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Steve Aschburner has been covering the NBA since 1980. You can reach him via e-mail here, explore his archive here, and follow him on X.
The opinions expressed on this page do not necessarily reflect those of the NBA, its teams, or Warner Bros. Discovery.
Bucks Triumph Over Sixers in Opening Week Showdown Despite Key Injuries
Overview of the Game
In a thrilling opening week showdown, the Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Philadelphia 76ers, securing a hard-fought victory despite missing some key players due to injuries. The game highlighted the depth and resilience of the Bucks as they showcased their championship aspirations right from the start of the season.
Game Highlights
The Bucks managed to clinch the win with a final score of 110-102. The match featured several standout performances, which kept basketball fans on the edge of their seats.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo: The “Greek Freak” led the Bucks with a dominant performance, scoring 30 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.
- Jrue Holiday: Holiday played a pivotal role, contributing 24 points and making crucial assists.
- Brook Lopez: Lopez added a solid 15 points and 10 rebounds, providing much-needed support in the paint.
Impact of Injuries on Team Performance
Despite the absence of key players like Khris Middleton and Pat Connaughton, the Bucks’ depth proved invaluable. The coaching staff’s strategic adjustments allowed them to maintain a strong defensive presence and capitalize on their offensive opportunities.
Key Injuries and Their Implications
Injuries can significantly impact a team’s performance in the NBA. Here’s a closer look at the Bucks’ sidelined players and the implications of their absence:
| Player | Injury Status | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Khris Middleton | Out (Knee) | Indefinite |
| Pat Connaughton | Out (Hand) | 2-4 weeks |
Defensive Strategies That Led to Victory
The Bucks displayed an impressive defensive strategy that limited the Sixers’ scoring opportunities. Key defensive maneuvers included:
- Switching on Screens: The Bucks effectively switched on screens, allowing them to maintain optimal defensive matchups against star players like Joel Embiid.
- Help Defense: Players were quick to rotate and provide help defense, making it difficult for the Sixers to penetrate the paint.
- Rebounding: Milwaukee dominated the boards, out-rebounding Philadelphia 45-35, which prevented second-chance points.
Philadelphia 76ers’ Struggles
The Sixers, led by Joel Embiid, faced challenges throughout the game. Although Embiid scored 28 points, the team struggled with consistency. Issues included:
- Turnovers: The Sixers committed 15 turnovers, which the Bucks capitalized on for fast-break points.
- Inconsistent Shooting: Philadelphia shot only 42% from the field, compared to Milwaukee’s 48%.
- Lack of Bench Scoring: The Sixers bench contributed only 20 points, falling short compared to the Bucks’ bench depth.
Statistical Breakdown
Here’s a comprehensive look at the team statistics from the game:
| Statistic | Bucks | Sixers |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goal Percentage | 48% | 42% |
| Three-Point Percentage | 38% | 33% |
| Free Throw Percentage | 75% | 85% |
| Assists | 28 | 22 |
| Rebounds | 45 | 35 |
Fans and Community Reactions
The Bucks’ victory sparked excitement among fans, with many taking to social media to express their support and optimism for the season. Here are some notable reactions:
- “Bucks showed resilience in the face of adversity! Can’t wait to see them build on this momentum!”
- “Giannis is unstoppable! A true MVP performance!”
- “Kudos to the coaching staff for keeping the team focused despite injuries.”
Next Steps for Both Teams
As the season progresses, both teams will need to make adjustments:
For the Bucks
- Monitor players’ health and recovery to ensure a full roster moving forward.
- Continue developing young talent and integrating them into the game plan.
- Build on defensive strategies to maintain their competitive edge.
For the 76ers
- Focus on minimizing turnovers to improve scoring efficiency.
- Increase bench production to support the starters.
- Reassess defensive strategies to counteract stronger offensive teams.
Conclusion
The opening week showdown between the Bucks and the Sixers was a testament to the competitive spirit of the NBA. The Bucks’ ability to overcome injuries and secure a crucial win sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season, while the Sixers will need to regroup and strategize moving forward. With this game as a launchpad, both teams have the potential to make significant impacts in their respective conferences.
