Witness Damian Lillard’s 45-point performance in the Bucks’ victory over the Pistons
Defense? It seemed to be a low priority during Saturday’s matchup between the Pistons and the Bucks in a matinee game. Despite the Pistons having an impressive offensive rating of 126.2, they still ended up with a loss. Damian Lillard capitalized on the defensive lapses, showcasing his skills on the final day of fan voting for the All-Star game. Lillard delivered a stellar performance, scoring 45 points against Detroit, making a strong case for his All-Star selection.
“Dame was outstanding tonight, and he was actively engaged on both ends of the court,” commented Bucks coach Adrian Griffin via the Associated Press. “I had no idea he had scored 45 points, but he’s a rhythm player, and he definitely found his rhythm out there. He made crucial shots, and that’s why he’s a key player on this team.”
For those who appreciate the sound of the referee’s whistle, this game catered to that preference, as the Bucks had 49 free throw attempts, and the Pistons had 32. Unfortunately, it resulted in a game with limited flow.
Giannis Antetokounmpo had an impressive performance, contributing 31 points, 10 rebounds, and nine assists, while Brook Lopez added 19 points for the Bucks. On the other side, Alec Burks showcased his skills with a notable 33 points off the bench, enhancing his trade value for the Pistons. Rookie Ausar Thompson had a career-high performance, scoring 22 points and grabbing nine boards.
These teams are set to meet again on Monday in Detroit.