Milwaukee Bucks: November recap and takeaways

Clutch statistics

As mentioned, the Bucks played several games this month that came down to the final minutes of the game. In games decided by four points or fewer, the Bucks were 1-5 — a disappointing record for any team, but especially a contender in the East.

Games within five points with three minutes or less left will be considered clutch situations. Here’s how the Bucks fared in that sphere:

As a team, the Milwaukee Bucks took 52 field goal attempts, and made 24 of them. They hit 14 of 19 free throws, and had six turnovers (two each by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Eric Bledsoe, one by Khris Middleton and another shot clock violation).

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In clutch situations, only three Bucks took free throw attempts, Bledsoe shot 2-of-4, Middleton went 3-of-3, and Antetokounmpo converted on nine of his 12 attempts.

In situations with fewer than 24 seconds on the clock it is interesting to note there was a wide distribution of shots. Bledsoe took five such shots, followed by Brook Lopez, Antetokounmpo and Middleton with three shots. Pat Connaughton, Malcolm Brogdon and Ersan Ilysaova also took one apiece.

The distribution of shots like this is not a bad thing, as long as each player is producing well. But for a team with a clear No. 1 like Antetokounmpo, the Bucks should ideally have a number of different plays they can perfect by the postseason where they are primarily going to him. There is no reason for Bledsoe to take more last possession shots than Giannis.

Finally, praise is due to head coach Mike Budenholzer for the Milwaukee Bucks’ shot type in these situations. Of the clutch field goal attempts, only one mid-range shot was taken (an 18-foot jump shot made by Middleton), while every other attempt was either within five feet of the rim, or a 3-point attempt.