Bobby Portis had a big night with 30 points, nine rebounds, and a personal best of five steals to lead the Milwaukee Bucks to a 117-99 win over the Orlando Magic on Wednesday.
The Bucks played without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who missed the game due to a strained left calf. Antetokounmpo is expected to sit out the final three games of the regular season, but his status for the playoffs is uncertain.
“We don’t have a specific timeline, but we have the best team working with him,” said Bucks coach Doc Rivers. “He’s a hard worker, and he’ll be back when he’s ready.”
Damian Lillard contributed 29 points and nine assists for the Bucks, who have a 4-3 record in games without Antetokounmpo this season. Jae Crowder scored 14 points off the bench, while Pat Beverley added 13 points, eight rebounds, and six assists.
Milwaukee was also without Khris Middleton, who is being rested after a sprained left ankle sidelined him for 16 games earlier this season. Despite missing key players, the Bucks showcased their depth.
“We’re a deep team,” said Lillard. “Giannis is our leader, but we have other guys who can step up. We knew what we had to do tonight, and we executed well.”
With the win, Milwaukee remains in the race for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference, ahead of New York and Cleveland.
The Magic, on the other hand, are trying to secure a playoff spot and avoid the play-in tournament. They have lost two of their last three games and face tough matchups against Philadelphia and Milwaukee in their final regular-season games.
“I think these upcoming games will be similar to tonight,” said Cole Anthony, who led the Magic with 23 points. “We’re preparing for a playoff-like atmosphere, and we need to bring our best.”
Paolo Banchero scored 20 points, and Jalen Suggs added 18 for the Magic, who missed Franz Wagner due to an ankle injury. Although the Magic started strong, the Bucks took control early and never relinquished the lead.
