Milwaukee Bucks needed to win last night’s game without question. It isn’t because they lost on Monday night, rather, their opponent Orlando might be the worst team in the league. They’re 3-16 since December 1st, lost five straight heading into the game and coming off a back-to-back effort. Still, Milwaukee let them linger in the first half as the Magic were only down. Bucks responded with a strong third quarter blowing out Orlando and leading to a 110-103 victory.

Giannis plays a large part in big third quarter
Milwaukee won this game in the third, and Giannis had a lot to do with it. He took control of this game on the offensive side of the ball and talked postgame about being more aggressive in the second half. That showed up against Orlando as he with the other Bucks wore down a tired Magic team. Khris Middleton and John Henson both had solid quarters as well.

Ice cold from three
Milwaukee is in a bit of a shooting slump from deep. They went 5-for-19 from three, and they’ve been in a slump for a couple weeks now. It’s not like Milwaukee is taking bad three point shots either. They get open looks but can’t knock them down. Not an encouraging thing with Golden State coming to town tomorrow. Even though Jason Kidd apparently hates him, this would be a perfect time for Sean Kilpatrick to get more run.

Jabari Parker eyes February return
We finally have a date on when Jabari Parker could come back to the Milwaukee Bucks. Kidd announced that he will be back the week before the All-Star Break. That’s a big-time boost for Milwaukee down the stretch. I have zero idea how he’s going to be used in this offense. My guess is they’ll not put him in the starting lineup to begin and work him back into the offense as the games go on. He’ll need to mesh with Eric Bledsoe and others.

Next up
Milwaukee brings the World Champion Golden State Warriors to town who are battling some injuries. Steph Curry remains questionable with an ankle injury and Kevin Durant has been battling a a calf issue. Milwaukee-Golden State do not like each other even though they play each other twice a year.