DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks (26-23) attempted to overcome injuries to various critical players during Saturday’s matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks (33-16). Despite receiving 40 points, 11 assists, and nine rebounds from Luka Doncic, the Mavs ultimately lost 129-117 despite leading by as many as 25 points in the first half.
Kyrie Irving (right thumb sprain), Dante Exum (right knee bursitis), and Dereck Lively II (nasal fracture) were all sidelined for this game for the Mavs. Brook Lopez was ruled out shortly before tipoff due to personal reasons.
Giannis Antetokounmpo finished with 48 points, 10 assists, six rebounds, and five steals in 40 minutes, shooting 20-28 from the floor. Damian Lillard racked up 30 points, eight assists, and three rebounds on a night the Mavs did not have their secondary superstar in Irving available.
“I thought Dame (Damian Lillard) and Giannis [Antetokounmpo] were aggressive and moved the ball at the same time tonight, and when they play like that, everybody gets involved,” Bucks coach Doc Rivers said.