5 Bucks Players Who Must Answer Giannis’ Plea in Game 2 vs. Pacers
After a tough loss to the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series, the Milwaukee Bucks are under pressure to respond—and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s message is clear: step up or step aside. With the superstar still recovering from a calf injury, the responsibility falls heavily on his teammates to rise to the occasion in Game 2. Here are five Bucks players who must answer that call.
1. Damian Lillard
Lillard exploded for 35 points in the first half of Game 1 but faded in the second. The Bucks need a full 48-minute performance from their All-Star guard if they want to even the series.
2. Khris Middleton
Middleton struggled with consistency, shooting just 5-of-16 from the field. As a seasoned playoff veteran, he needs to provide steady scoring and leadership.
3. Brook Lopez
Lopez had a quiet Game 1 defensively. Known for his rim protection, the Bucks need him to anchor the paint and challenge Indiana’s interior scorers.
4. Bobby Portis
Portis brings energy off the bench but was largely ineffective in Game 1. He must bring his usual hustle and crash the boards harder.
5. Malik Beasley
Beasley’s perimeter shooting could be a game-changer. With Indiana crowding the paint, the Bucks will need him to knock down open looks and stretch the floor.
With Giannis potentially sidelined again, these five players must rise to the challenge if the Bucks hope to turn the tide in Game 2.
