NBA playoffs 2019: Bucks takes series lead over Celtics

Giannis Antetokounmpo had a statement game, recording 32 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists for Milwaukee.

Milwaukee took control of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Friday. The Bucks beat the Celtics 123-116 at TD Garden in Game 3, claiming a 2-1 lead in the series.

Giannis Antetokounmpo had a statement game, recording 32 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists for Milwaukee. He also protected the paint and recorded three blocks on the night.

Giannis' SWAT sparks the @Bucks in transition! #NBAPlayoffs#FearTheDeer 86#Celtics 82

: @ESPNNBApic.twitter.com/QNIrAiFWwL

— NBA (@NBA) May 4, 2019

 

Kyrie Irving scored a team-high 29 for the Celtics following Boston's Game 2 loss, but the Celtics' bench lost the points battle to Milwaukee by 26.

Boston failed to defend home court, but it will have a chance to knot things up again in Game 4 on Monday.

Stud of the Night

George Hill scored 21 points on 9-of-12 shooting off the bench for Milwaukee.

Dud of the Night

Eric Bledsoe scored nine points on 4-of-15 shooting in the Bucks' win.

Highlight

Jaylen Brown dropped the hammer on Antetokounmpo after driving to the rim through contact.

JB FROM THE RAFTERS ☠ pic.twitter.com/wNbdXkTU09

— Boston Celtics (@celtics) May 4, 2019

 

What's Next?

Warriors at Rockets —  Houston is down 0-2 to the defending champ but has a chance to get back on track at home. The Warriors is clicking on all cylinders, but the Rockets has managed to stay close down the stretch in this second-round series. Golden State going up 3-0 would make a Houston comeback very unlikely.