Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 28 points, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a commanding 118-89 victory over a depleted Los Angeles Lakers team in the Western Conference clash. The Lakers, already struggling with a long injury list, were without key players such as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both sidelined with sprained ankles. To make matters worse, the Lakers also missed starters LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, along with key reserves Dorian Finney-Smith and Jarred Vanderbilt.
Despite the absence of key players, the Bucks capitalized on the Lakers’ struggles. Antetokounmpo also recorded seven rebounds and four assists, while Gary Trent Jr. contributed 23 points off the bench, helping Milwaukee secure only their third win in eight games. Kyle Kuzma added 20 points for the Bucks, as they completed the season sweep over the Lakers, having previously defeated them 126-106 in Milwaukee just eight days ago.
On the other side, Bronny James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, delivered an impressive performance, scoring a career-high 17 points and five assists, marking his first double-figure game in 22 NBA appearances. The 20-year-old rookie has shown steady progress, playing in his third consecutive game of the season.
Dalton Knecht also chipped in with 17 points for the Lakers, but it was not enough to prevent their nine-game home win streak from ending. The Bucks will next travel to the Sacramento Kings, while the Lakers will return home to face the Chicago Bulls.