The Bucks’ misery continues! They headed into tonight’s Hawks clash hoping to shake off the four losses in their previous five appearances. And the Milwaukee franchise initially looked well on their way to victory as they gained a commanding eighteen-point lead in the first half. However, an abysmal third-quarter performance turned the game around, leading the Bucks to another heartbreaking loss. As expected, head coach Doc Rivers was not pleased with his team’s effort.

Addressing the media post-game, a frustrated Rivers said, “I thought we completely – I’m trying to find the right word – I don’t wanna say we tricked off the game. Our casualness in the third quarter was ridiculous. And then we couldn’t turn it back on.” Well, the Bucks gave up a whopping 37 points in the third quarter, and could never bounce back. “That’s happened three or four times this year.” Doc added.

While the Bucks are still seeded fifth in the East, they are only one win ahead of the Pistons and could easily fall in the standings if their struggles continue. Only three wins separate them from the ninth-seeded Hawks, who they lost to tonight. Surprisingly, Doc was already prepared for the outcome of the game, “It would have been a joke to basketball if we won the game tonight. We didn’t deserve it.”

Sure enough, the head coach took accountability for his players’ casual attitude while they were ahead in the game, “It’s on me. I gotta get them to see that you can’t be casual in an NBA game and think you’re gonna win the game.” Well, Bucks fans had high hopes coming into the game, as it was supposed to be Kyle Kuzma’s big reveal following the trade. But it ended in disappointment.

Kyle Kuzma struggles in Bucks debut as Giannis Antetokounmpo’s health raises concerns

“I want to make this the home of your backstage pass to follow me and the rest of the fellas on our way to a championship. That’s my only goal. See you soon Milwaukee.” Kuzma made his championship aspirations clear the moment he got traded from the Wizards. And tonight was his opportunity to put his money where his mouth is.

It was the perfect setup. Giannis Antetokounmpo was out with left calf soreness and there was a spot open in the rotation. Unfortunately, Kuzma could not capitalize as he could score only 12 points and seven rebounds in his debut. Moreover, he struggled to find his rhythm and shot four of thirteen from the field. Not the debut Bucks fans or Kuzma were hoping for.

But this is only his first game with the team and hopefully, the former champ will adjust better to the new environment in the coming days. Well, he must do it soon because the Bucks need Kuzma to play like he did during the Lakers title run five years ago and produce the same result in Milwaukee. Do you think he can do it?