NBA Playoff Race Heats Up With Clippers’ Dramatic 124-118 Win Over Bucks
In a game dripping with postseason implications, the Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 124-118 Thursday night at Fiserv Forum, extending their winning streak to four games while exposing cracks in Milwaukee’s championship armor.
Star Power Meets Defensive Woes
James Harden (32 points, 11 assists) and Norman Powell (28 points) exploited Milwaukee’s porous interior defense, while Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 38-point effort couldn’t overcome Damian Lillard’s cold-shooting night (6-21 FG). The teams combined for 242 points – smashing the 228.5 over/under – in a contest that saw 18 lead changes.
Key Factors in Clippers’ Victory
- Defensive adjustments: LA targeted Lillard repeatedly in pick-and-roll situations
- Bench dominance: Clippers reserves outscored Milwaukee’s 42-22
- Suspension fallout: Bucks sorely missed Bobby Portis’ rebounding
“We knew their defensive numbers were slipping post-All-Star break,” said Clippers coach Ty Lue. “Our gameplan was simple: attack the paint and make them uncomfortable.”
Playoff Implications
| Team | Conference Rank | Streak |
|---|---|---|
| Clippers | 2nd (West) | W4 |
| Bucks | 3rd (East) | L2 |
The loss drops Milwaukee to 29-25, while Los Angeles (32-23) strengthens its hold on homecourt advantage in the Western Conference playoff race. Both teams face critical matchups this weekend against division rivals.
