Damian Lillard demonstrated his scoring prowess and leadership without leading man Giannis Antetokounmpo . He scored 35 points before half-time as the Milwaukee Bucks defeated the visiting Indiana Pacers 109-104 in a thrilling encounter. The Greek Freak was ruled out due to a left calf injury.
In his absence, Damian Lillard stepped up most magnificently by setting a new team record for points scored in a half of a playoff game for the Milwaukee Bucks. And a video has surfaced of him muttering the words: “This is what ya’ll brought me here for.”
For the Indiana Pacers, Pascal Siakam scored a game-high 36 points, 13 rebounds, and two assists, but despite his best efforts, it wasn’t enough to stop the inevitable as they lost their shooting range, shooting 8/39 from beyond the arc. Thus ultimately ending their two-game winning streak over the Bucks.
Furthermore, for the Bucks, Khris Middleton also stepped up with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists. He complimented Lillard as he showed the strength in depth for the Bucks despite the injury to Giannis and relieved the pressure on Doc Rivers.
Doc Rivers showers praise on Damian Lillard after brilliant first-half performance
Damian Lillard was on fire during the first game against the Indiana Pacers as he scored a record-breaking 35 first-half points. His performance has led coach Doc Rivers to sing his praises.
He carried us. He was unbelievable. I thought he just played it under control. Very aggressive…The way we wanted him. Coach Doc Rivers at the post-game presser
Lillard completed 11/24 from the field while scoring all his six beyond-the-arc shots. Surprisingly, he didn’t add to his tally in the second half, as his first-half performance was the momentum needed to clinch the win.
The Bucks would hope to take up from where they stopped when they host the Pacers again in game 2 of the series. And with Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return uncertain, Damian Lillard might be called upon again to deliver big.
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