High-Flying Grizzlies Look to Stay Hot vs. Slumping Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks are back home after a disappointing 1-3 road trip, but they face a tough challenge Sunday night against the red-hot Memphis Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies have won six straight against the Bucks and are riding a 7-1 surge, while Milwaukee hopes to regain their defensive edge after a blowout loss to the Spurs.
Bucks Struggling After Rough Road Trip
Milwaukee ended their road trip on a low note, giving up a season-high 144 points in a 26-point loss to San Antonio.
Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 35 points, but it wasn’t enough to counter Victor Wembanyama’s 30-point explosion.
“We’ve been a great defensive team, but on this trip, we have not been,” said Bucks coach Doc Rivers.
Key Concerns for Milwaukee:
❌ Defensive struggles – 17 points allowed in the first four minutes vs. Spurs
❌ Bench depth – Bobby Portis (personal) remains out
❌ Fatigue factor – Brook Lopez logging heavy minutes in Portis’ absence
Milwaukee has lost six straight to Memphis, including a 122-99 defeat on Halloween where Damian Lillard shot just 1-for-12.
Memphis Thriving Despite Injuries
The Grizzlies continue to roll, even without Ja Morant (shoulder), Marcus Smart (finger), and Vince Williams Jr. (ankle).
Desmond Bane led the charge in a 120-119 win vs. Houston, dropping 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists.
“Our defense has to improve, especially on second-chance points,” said Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins.
Key Grizzlies Performers:
✅ Jaren Jackson Jr. – 22.8 PPG (All-Star reserve)
✅ Desmond Bane – 5.5 APG, elite playmaking
✅ Zach Edey – 7.3 RPG, anchoring the defense
Memphis ranks top-five in both offense & defense, while also leading the NBA in pace and average speed.
Game Outlook: Can the Bucks Flip the Script?
Milwaukee has the firepower to compete, but their defensive issues & fatigue could make this a tough matchup.
Can Giannis & Lillard break Milwaukee’s losing streak vs. Memphis? Or will the Grizzlies’ fast-paced attack overwhelm them again?