KPJ-led offense helped Kuzma, Portis find rhythm The Bucks looked like a team that understood Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn’t coming to the rescue and handled its

How did it happen? Does it change our opinion about Boston's hot start? And what do we know about Giannis wanting out of Milwaukee?

The Milwaukee Bucks forced the Celtics into a poor shooting night and Doc Rivers explains just exactly how they did it.

In a stunning display of teamwork and resilience, the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Boston Celtics 116-101, showcasing their depth and talent in the absence of their star player, Giannis Antetokounmpo. This victory highlights the Bucks' ability to adapt and overcome challenges, particularly when faced with the loss of a key player.

With 5:26 remaining in the fourth quarter in Milwaukee, Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla pulled all starters off the floor. It wasn’t a call to the bench to signal a job well done — it was an admission of defeat, an acknowledgment that Boston’s five-game winning streak had come to an end.

"There were a few make-miss (shots), but most of the time they were – that's what we planned for," said Rivers.

The Milwaukee Bucks will again miss Giannis Antetokounmpo for tonight's game against the Boston Celtics due to his calf injury.

Kyle Kuzma scored a season-high 31 points and Bobby Portis added 27 points and 10 rebounds as the Milwaukee Bucks rallied in the second half to defeat the Boston Celtics 116-101 on Thursday night without injured star Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Nikola Jokić entered Thursday’s contest averaging 26.2 points, 12.5 rebounds and 10.1 assists through his last 10 games versus Sacramento. He lived up to his reputation with a 36-point, 12-rebound, 8-assist masterclass on 14-of-16 shooting.

Boston Celtics favored to win as Milwaukee Bucks face challenges without Giannis. The game opens with a total of 223.5, with potential for an upset here.