Gary Trent Jr. delivered a season-high 29 points, guiding the Milwaukee Bucks to a 111-107 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night. This victory extended the Bucks’ winning streak to four games and strengthened their hold on fifth place in the Eastern Conference.
Milwaukee (44-34) was without Giannis Antetokounmpo, who rested after playing 43 minutes in a thrilling overtime victory over Miami on Saturday. Despite missing their star player, the Bucks were still able to hold off a depleted Pelicans squad (21-57) for the win.
Brook Lopez also contributed significantly for the Bucks, finishing with 20 points and 12 rebounds. Kevin Porter Jr., who had a solid performance off the bench in Miami, started in New Orleans and added 20 points to help secure the win. Ryan Rollins also stepped up, recording 14 points and 10 assists in the game.
The Pelicans, who were missing four of their starters, saw impressive performances from Antonio Reeves and Yves Missi. Reeves led the way with 23 points, while Missi had 18 points and 12 rebounds. Lester Quinones, in just his ninth game of the season, contributed 17 points, but the Pelicans still came up short, losing their third consecutive game.
In addition to Antetokounmpo, the Bucks were without Damian Lillard (blood clot in right calf) and Bobby Portis (suspension). Pat Connaughton (right ankle) also did not play, leaving the Bucks with a lineup that included Kyle Kuzma, Taurean Prince, and Lopez alongside Trent and Porter.
The Pelicans were missing key players such as Zion Williamson (lower back), CJ McCollum (right foot), and Herb Jones (right shoulder). Their lineup was further thinned out with injuries to several other contributors, including Trey Murphy III and Dejounte Murray.
