The Milwaukee Bucks wrapped up a four game trip out west by falling to the Suns in Phoenix Thursday night 131-107. It was the first meeting between the teams since Milwaukee beat the Suns four games to two in last year’s NBA Finals to secure their second championship. The Bucks gave up a late run to Phoenix at the end of the second quarter as they led by 8 at the break and stumbled coming out for the third period as the Suns took control for good. DeAndre Ayton led seven players in double figures with 27 points. Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday topped Milwaukee (35-22) with 21 points while Giannis Antetokounmpo was held to 18. Backup guard Pat Connaughton had to leave the game with what was reported to be a broken bone in his right hand. He’s expected to be out at least a few weeks. The Bucks fall a game and a half behind the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference race and they’ll return home and get a few days rest before welcoming the Portland Trailblazers to Fiserv Forum on Monday night.
The NBA trade deadline was Thursday and the Bucks made a move in a multi-player, four team deal. The Bucks sent former number one pick Donte DiVincenzo to the Sacramento Kings and dealt Semi Ojelye and Rodney Hood to the Los Angeles Clippers getting 32 year old forward Serge Ibaka from the Clippers in return. Milwaukee will also receive two future second round picks and cash as part of the trade.
Antetokounmpo was the top choice by NBA All-Star captain LeBron James Thursday as James and fellow captain Kevin Durant picked sides for the All-Star Game February 20 in Cleveland. Khris Middleton was selected by Durant.
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