Joel Embiid punishes Wizards on both ends as Sixers record fifth straight win
NBABucks Extend Lead Over Celtics and Sixers in Eastern Conference With Comeback Win Over Raptors
- The Milwaukee Bucks beat the Toronto Raptors in a critical Eastern Conference clash
- Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brook Lopez starred in the Bucks’ win over the Raptors
- Lopez’s blazing late period in the fourth quarter swung momentum Milwaukee’s favor
The Milwaukee Bucks returned to winning ways on Sunday, defeating the Toronto Raptors 118-111.
Five players scored in double figures for the Bucks, who improved their record to 51-20 this season.
They extended their lead atop the Eastern Conference standings to 2.5 games.
Giannis Antetokounmpo delivered a fantastic all-around performance, registering a triple-double with 22 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, per ESPN.
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It was the Greek star’s 33rd career triple-double. He was perfect from the floor, making all nine field goal attempts.
Lopez takes over late
It was Brook Lopez though, who led the Bucks’ uprising in the fourth quarter. He scored 17 of his 26 points in the final period, helping turn a six-point deficit into a seven-point victory.
He went on a solo 8-0 run to start the fourth to give Milwaukee a 97-95 lead. The Bucks extended that advantage to 104-97 as they went on a 15-2 blast.
The Raptors staged a late rally, cutting the Bucks’ lead to three points. Lopez answered right back with an underneath basket to seal the win for Milwaukee.
Lopez also had five rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and one steal in 32 minutes of action. Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday were the other starters who scored in double digits, chipping in 20 and 11 points respectively.
Raptors' winning streak ends
It was a heartbreaking defeat for the Raptors, who carried a 95-89 lead entering the fourth quarter. However, they failed to close out the Bucks as their three-game winning streak ended.
NBA Power Rankings: Milwaukee Bucks in No. 1 spot as Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings soar
NBAFred VanVleet led all Raptors scorers with 23 points. O.G. Anunoby and Jakob Poeltl also contributed, dropping 22 and 20 points respectively.
Bucks clinch playoff spot
Sports Brief recently reported on the Bucks' win over the Suns.
Milwaukee pulled away late in the fourth to seal the 116-104 win.
The Bucks managed to clinch a playoff spot with this victory.