NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Bucks even series with win vs. Celtics; Warriors extend lead over Rockets

Ameer Tyree

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NBA playoffs wrap 2019: Bucks even series with win vs. Celtics; Warriors extend lead over Rockets image

The Celtics beat Milwaukee by 22 in Game 1, but the Bucks bounced back in a big way Tuesday.

The Bucks topped the Celtics 123-102 in Game 2 behind the efforts of an energized Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The star totaled a game-high 29 points, along with 10 rebounds, in Milwaukee's victory, and even brought out a shimmy celebration after a made 3-pointer.

The Celtics' scoring was surprisingly led by Marcus Morris, who scored 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting.

The Celtics will have an opportunity to surge ahead when the series shifts to Boston, with Game 3 set for Friday. 

Meanwhile, the Warriors are firmly in control of their series with the Rockets.

Golden State secured a 115-109 win over Houston at Oracle Arena to take a 2-0 lead in the second-round matchup.

The Warriors controlled most of the game, but the Rockets rallied in the fourth quarter and shrunk their deficit down to just three on a Clint Capela free throw with 6:44 to play. Stephen Curry, however, answered with a 3-pointer and Andre Iguodala followed with a dunk, which ended Houston’s momentum.

Kevin Durant tallied 29 points for the Warriors while Rockets star James Harden also scored 29 in the losing effort. Every Golden State starter reached double figures.

Curry (finger) and Harden (eye) both briefly left the matchup in the first half before returning.

Stud of the Night

Khris Middleton tallied 28 points and made seven 3-pointers for the Bucks.

Draymond Green finished with 15 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in the Warriors’ win.

Dud of the Night

Kyrie Irving scored just 9 points on 4-of-18 shooting for the Celtics.

Highlight

Jaylen Brown somehow got this circus shot to fall.

Harden beats the buzzer before the half.

What's Next?

Trail Blazers at Nuggets — Portland and Denver's top options had amazing offensive performances in Game 1. Damian Lillard scored 39 points while Nikola Jokic contributed 37 for Denver. The Nuggets came away with the win and appear to have bounced back after their seven-game series against the Spurs in the first round.

 

Ameer Tyree