Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get.
Apparently that quote doesn’t reign true in Forrest Gump. It also perfectly describes the 2015 Milwaukee Bucks season.
After defeating the defending champion and 28 game-win streak Golden State Warriors on Saturday night, the Bucks fell to the Los Angeles Lakers by a score of 113-95. The sad part about this game is that this was the likely the easiest game of the four-game road trip.
The Bucks will be playing in the Staples Center once again tonight, this time against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Bucks met the Clippers once already, back on December 10; a matchup the Clippers won soundly, 109-95.
Lost in the Bucks style of play was a consistent effort. Sure, Greg Monroe was out, but Jason Kidd did not let that be an excuse of any kind. He said this loss was on poor execution and lack of effort.
If the Bucks play with the style of attempt they put forth last night, it will be an even longer night. Since playing in Milwaukee, the Clippers have won two of their last three games and sit at a record of 15-10.
One thing the Bucks will need to focus full intent on tonight is making sure to wrap up the perimeter. That’s the main objective they failed to complete in their prior matchup with the Clippers and they paid dearly for it. J.J. Redick sunk six three-pointers and put up a game-high 31 points. The Bucks cannot afford another sharp-shooting night from such a lethal threat.
photo: clippers.com
Although Jason Kidd won’t admit it, Greg Monroe’s absence did have a negative impact on Milwaukee last night. The Bucks were without the consistent scoring option down low in the post that they’ve had all year. John Henson is a great defensive player, but outside of his lefty hook shot, he doesn’t boast much of an offensive game. Hopefully Moose will be cleared by doctors and be ready to play after bumping knees with a teammate during practice the day before.
Blake Griffin will be a force to be reckoned with during tonight’s game. The Clippers forward has been lethal lately, most recently putting forth a 34-point performance against the Pistons. Jabari Parker will definitely be tested tonight on defense.
Hopefully the Bucks can come out with the same firepower and mindset that they played with against Golden State. If that is absent, so are any chances of the team being victorious tonight.