Last night, March 26, 2025, the Milwaukee Bucks faced off against the Denver Nuggets in a game that could have easily been written off as a loss on paper. With Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined due to a left foot sprain—and Damian Lillard already out with deep vein thrombosis—the Bucks were without their two biggest stars. Yet, against all odds, they put up a valiant fight, ultimately falling 127-117 to a Nuggets team led by Nikola Jokic’s triple-double (39 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists). While the scoreboard didn’t tilt in Milwaukee’s favor, the Bucks showcased several key strengths that kept them competitive and highlighted their resilience without Giannis on the floor.
1. Balanced Scoring Effort
Without Giannis, the Bucks leaned on a collective offensive approach, and it paid off in a big way. Seven of the eight players who saw the court scored in double figures, a testament to the team’s ability to spread the wealth. The possessions chart here shows it in detail. Usually you have Giannis at the top of that chart hogging the ball for more than 1/4 of total possessions. Last night the burden was shared. In terms of scoring Brook Lopez led the charge with 26 points, marking his third straight game with 20+ points, while others like Gary Trent Jr., Taurean Prince, and Kevin Porter Jr. stepped up to fill the void. This balanced attack kept Denver’s defense on its toes, unable to key in on a single scorer. Compare that to the Nuggets, where Jokic and Michael Porter Jr. (23 points) carried much of the load, and it’s clear Milwaukee’s depth was a standout factor.
2. Relentless Energy and Hustle
The Bucks didn’t let the absence of their MVP dampen their spirit. They played with a noticeable chip on their shoulder, diving for loose balls and battling in the paint against a formidable Nuggets frontcourt. While Jokic dominated the glass, Milwaukee’s effort was evident in their ability to stay within striking distance despite being outrebounded. They forced Denver into 13 turnovers, capitalizing on hustle plays to keep the game closer than expected. This scrappy energy showed a team unwilling to roll over, even shorthanded. It was particularly obvious in the high energy defence of a championship calibre team like Denvery but also on the other end.
3. Exploiting Denver’s Defensive Lapses
Denver’s defense struggled at times, and the Bucks were quick to pounce. Milwaukee shot an efficient 47.9% from the field and knocked down 14 three-pointers, exposing gaps in the Nuggets’ perimeter defense. Players like Lopez and Trent Jr. found open looks, particularly in transition, where the Bucks scored 18 fast-break points. Against a Nuggets team that had lost three of their last four games, Milwaukee’s ability to exploit defensive breakdowns kept them in the game, even as Jokic went off. No static and predictable defence like when Giannis brings down the ball. It was flowing, popping and kicking all over the place, giving the Nuggets nightmares.
4. Lopez’s Dominance in the Paint
Brook Lopez deserves a special shoutout for his performance last night. Stepping up as the primary big man without Giannis, Lopez not only scored 26 points but also held his own against Jokic in the post. His 11-of-19 shooting included several buckets inside, where he used his size and veteran savvy to counter Denver’s frontcourt. While Jokic still got his numbers, Lopez’s presence ensured the Bucks didn’t get completely overwhelmed in the paint, a critical factor against a team with Denver’s interior strength. Jokić’s bulk can make it harder for Giannis to bulldoze through him. Jokić often plants himself in the paint to force Giannis into tougher angles or contested shots. Brook has higher IQ and skills to counter. Jokić isn’t the quickest laterally, so he relies on smart positioning to cut off driving lanes. He tends to sag off Giannis slightly, daring him to shoot from mid-range or beyond the arc, where Giannis is weak under pressure. But Brook shines.
5. Bench Stepping Up Big
With the stars out, Milwaukee’s bench players rose to the occasion. Ryan Rollins, starting in place of Lillard, brought strong defensive intensity, while Kevin Porter Jr. and Taurean Prince provided scoring punch off the pine. The Bucks’ bench outscored Denver’s 42-31, a significant edge that kept the game within reach. This depth is a promising sign for Milwaukee as they navigate injuries heading into the playoffs—proof that the supporting cast can carry the load when needed.
6. Competitive Spirit in a Tough Road Environment
Playing at Ball Arena against a Nuggets team desperate to snap a skid, the Bucks never backed down. They trailed by as many as 15 but clawed back multiple times, cutting the deficit to single digits in the fourth quarter. This resilience in a hostile road environment—without their best player—speaks volumes about the team’s character. Coach Doc Rivers noted postgame that the team fought hard, and that grit was evident in their refusal to let the game turn into a blowout.
Yes, the Bucks lost 127-117, and Nikola Jokic’s brilliance was ultimately the difference-maker. But last night wasn’t about the final score—it was about what Milwaukee proved they could do without Giannis Antetokounmpo. They showcased depth, hustle, and an ability to adapt, turning a potential rout into a competitive battle. As the playoffs loom, this performance offers a silver lining: the Bucks aren’t a one- or two-man show. With Lopez leading the charge, a balanced attack, and a never-say-die attitude, Milwaukee showed they’ve got fight left in them, even on the toughest nights. Much like the championship Bucks roster, this is a low key superteam.
Last night’s showing was a reminder that this team has more than just star power up its sleeve.
