NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Bucks win third straight game vs Celtics; Rockets even score with Warriors

Milwaukee's 113-101 victory over Boston gave it a 3-1 lead in its second-round series.

The Bucks has won three straight against the Celtics. Milwaukee's 113-101 victory over Boston gave it a 3-1 lead in its second-round series.

Giannis Antetokounmpo is playing like the MVP candidate he is. The star forward totaled 39 points and 16 rebounds on the night in a dominant performance. He didn't let up down the stretch and decided to finish the game with a bang.

Kyrie Irving posted 23 points and 10 assists in the contest, but wasn't an efficient shooter. He made just seven of his 22 field goal attempts and was 1 of 7 from behind the arc.

Overcoming a 3-1 deficit will certainly be difficult against the team that recorded the best record in basketball this season. Game 5 will take place in Milwaukee on Wednesday.

The Rockets are dead even with the Warriors at 2-2.

Houston's 112-108 victory over Golden State was its straight win at the Toyota Center, completing a home court sweep.

James Harden was phenomenal for the Rockets. The reigning MVP led all scorers with 38 points and 10 rebounds in the contest. He was sinking big shots and did so in an exciting fashion.

Kevin Durant's piping hot hand stayed that way, as the Warriors star poured in a team-high 34 points. Like in Game 3, Golden State made an impressive late game surge to make things interesting at the end. But it fell just short.

From here on out last year's Western Conference Finals competitors will race to see who can win two of the final three games and advance to the third round.

Studs of the Night

George Hill tallied 15 points, four rebounds and five assists off the bench in Milwaukee's win.

Stephen Curry rattled home 30 points for the Warriors.

Dud of the Night

Gordon Hayward scored two points on 1-of-5 shooting for Boston.

Highlight

Pat Connaughton blocked a 3-pointer on one end and threw down a dunk in transition on the other.

What's Next?

Portland at Denver —  The Nuggets lost in quadruple overtime Friday, but bounced back to get a crucial Game 4 win. The Trail Blazers will have to get a win in Denver, where the second-seeded Nuggets were one of the best teams in the NBA this season. The 2-2 series could take a big swing Tuesday.