Gary Trent Jr. scored 31 points, and Immanuel Quickley almost got a triple-double as the Toronto Raptors ended their 15-game losing streak with a 117-111 win over the struggling Milwaukee Bucks on Friday night.
Milwaukee played without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who was out due to a left hamstring injury. This loss marked the Bucks’ fifth defeat in their last six games, with their recent losses against Washington, Memphis, and Toronto, all teams with records below .500.
Damian Lillard, an All-Star for the Bucks, emphasized the need for discipline and accountability during tough times like these. He acknowledged that while such periods are challenging, the team needs to improve and handle upcoming games better.
Trent showcased his prowess from beyond the arc, making 7 of 15 three-pointers and contributing to the Raptors’ 14-point lead in the third quarter. Despite the Bucks’ late rally, Toronto held on for the win, clinching the season series against Milwaukee 2-1.
RJ Barrett scored 26 points, while Quickley scored 25 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and provided nine assists. Quickley’s performance at the free-throw line, where he made 14 of 15 shots.
Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic praised the team’s resilience and highlighted Trent’s ability as one of the league’s top three-point shooters.
Lillard led the Bucks with 36 points and six assists, while Khris Middleton added 21 points. Although Middleton’s three-pointer brought the Bucks within two points late in the game, his missed attempt to take the lead sealed the victory for the Raptors.
Bobby Portis contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds for Milwaukee. Under coach Doc Rivers since January 26, the Bucks have a record of 15-16. Antetokounmpo, Lillard, and Middleton have played together in just six of those games.
Despite the recent slump, Milwaukee maintains the second position in the Eastern Conference, leading Cleveland by one game and Orlando and New York by two, with five games remaining for each team.
