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Bobby Portis Helps Milwaukee Bucks Stay Alive with Incredible Game 5 Performance

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics
By Christian Alamodin | Last updated 5/1/24

Many believed the Milwaukee Bucks were going to be in for a rough time against Indiana Pacers in Game 5. Not only did they have to deal with two of their star players sitting out, but they would have to stop a confident Tyrese Haliburton who had an incredible Game 4.

Since the Bucks cannot lose any games at this point, the pressure was high for Doc Rivers and the rest of the Milwaukee roster. Losing a game from that point on meant an early ticket to Cancun, so the Bucks had to do everything to keep the series going.

Thankfully for them, the team managed to pull through with a resounding 92-115 victory. It was a strong showing that showed fans how a dramatic Game 7 win is still in the cards for them.

The game was also special for one player as he made his presence felt in the absence of the team’s top stars.

Bobby Portis shines as the Milwaukee Bucks dominate the Indiana Pacers

Since the team didn’t have two of their leading scorers, it was up to Khris Middleton and the rest of the squad to step up to the plate and extend the series. Middleton did well, scoring 29 points on 45% shooting.

However, the most surprising contributor for the Bucks this game was Bobby Portis. The forward has had a decent postseason so far, averaging 15.8 points and 10.6 rebounds against the Pacers.

His Game 5 showing against Indiana is his best so far. He finished the game with 29 points, 10 rebounds, an assist, and a steal in almost 40 minutes of play. His resurgence was key in stopping the Pacers from closing the series in Milwaukee.

Other players who contributed to the win included Patrick Beverley (13 points, four rebounds, 12 assists, two steals, one block) and Malik Beasley (18 points, four rebounds, and three steals on 64% shooting).

Bucks’ defensive adjustments were key in containing the Pacers

The Milwaukee Bucks did score enough points to win Game 5, but it’s also important to note that Doc Rivers’ defensive adjustments allowed the Bucks to force a Game 6 in Indianapolis.

Haliburton was neutered offensively as he had to settle for tough shots to finish with 16 points on 43% shooting. While five Pacers were able to score in double digits, there wasn’t any clear leader on the offense that could take the game to the Bucks.

If the Pacers want to finish this game in six, their stars must shoot the ball more efficiently against the stifling defensive schemes the Bucks ran in Game 5.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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