Brew Hoop
Milwaukee Bucks News and Analysis Since 2007
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Rapid Recap: Timberwolves 112, Bucks 100
The Minnesota Timberwolves defeat the Milwaukee Bucks 112-100 at the Target Center on Nov. 2, 2026, snapping the Bucks' three‑game losing streak and dropping them to a 1‑6 start—their fifth‑worst opening stretch ever. LaMelo Ball erupts for a season‑high 34 points, while Ayo Dosunmu adds 19, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Milwaukee’s Tyler Herro leads the Bucks with 21 points, but their three‑point shooting collapses to 30.6%, including a 3‑of‑18 first quarter. Coach Taylor Jenkins reshuffles the lineup, benching Ryan Rollins for rookie Brayden Burries, who scores 13 in his first start. The Wolves pull away in the final four minutes, securing the win.
Bucks exercise rookie-scale options on Kel’el Ware, Kasparas Jakučionis
The Milwaukee Bucks have exercised rookie‑scale options on both Kel’el Ware and Kasparas Jakučionis for the 2027‑28 season, locking in $7.14 million and $4.02 million contracts respectively. Ware, the 22‑year‑old seven‑footer acquired in the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, posted career‑high numbers (13.8 PPG, 8.7 RPG) but saw declines in shooting efficiency (46.8% FG, 26.1% 3‑pt) and minutes (19.7 MPG). Meanwhile, 20‑year‑old guard Jakučionis emerged as a sixth‑man favorite, averaging career highs (8.3 PPG, 4.0 APG, 22.5 MPG) though his three‑point rate fell to 23.5%. The moves signal the Bucks’ confidence in the duo’s role in the team’s present and future.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Preview & Game Thread: Let’s get serious
The Milwaukee Bucks (1‑5) face the Minnesota Timberwolves (4‑3) tonight at 7 p.m. CST in Minneapolis, a matchup that becomes far more winnable for Milwaukee after Anthony Edwards’ knee surgery sidelines him for two months. The Wolves, now without Edwards and guard Donte DiVincenzo (Achilles), have slipped to 1‑2 in their last three games, including a 121‑111 loss to the Spurs. Rudy Gobert, struggling with a shooting slump but still a dominant rebounder, will battle Myles Turner, who is also off‑pace. The preview highlights a potential breakout for Ousmane Dieng, who could finally break his 2.4 PPG drought.
Winners & Sinners: Week 2
In Week 2 the Milwaukee Bucks posted a 1‑2 record, snapping their losing streak with a 23‑point, 10‑rebounds, 7‑assist performance from Tyler Herro that earned him the week’s MVP. The win came against arch‑rival Indiana Pacers, but the Bucks fell to the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers, prompting concussion concerns and exposing defensive lapses—particularly in the second quarter, where the team shot under 30% in each game. Myles Turner’s subpar outings drew criticism, while Kyle Kuzma briefly held the Defensive Belt. The article also hints at roster moves, noting Nate Ament’s rise over Ousmane Dieng.
Bucks vs. Cavaliers Player Grades: Rookies unafraid, veterans spooked in Halloween shellacking
The Cavaliers rout the Bucks 136-111 on Halloween, leaving Milwaukee stunned after a 27‑point second‑quarter collapse. Rookie Brayden Burries leads with 14 points, while veterans struggle: Tyler Herro (15 pts, D), Ryan Rollins (9 pts, C‑), and Kasparas Jakucionis (5 pts, D+). Kel’el Ware posts a double‑double (19‑10) but most of his production comes in garbage time, and Myles Turner’s shooting woes persist. Despite solid defensive effort from Kyle Kuzma (14 pts, C+) and Jaime Jaquez Jr. (8 pts, C), the Bucks cannot match Cleveland’s size and scoring. The grade sheet highlights a young squad unafraid but overwhelmed, signaling a need for adjustments before the next matchup.
Rapid Recap: Cavaliers 136, Bucks 111
The Cleveland Cavaliers dismantle the Milwaukee Bucks 136-111 on Oct. 31, 2026, delivering the Bucks’ second straight blowout loss. Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen lead Cleveland with a combined 52 points, while Milwaukee’s Tyler Herro endures his first poor outing of the season. Rookies Brayden Burries and Nate Ament each record career‑high 14 points for the Bucks, and Kyle Kuzma contributes 10 for the hosts. The Cavs explode in the second quarter, outscoring Milwaukee 48-21 to build a 72-46 halftime lead, and never look back. Despite a brief Bucks surge in the fourth, Cleveland maintains control, sealing the win with a 109-76 lead entering the final period.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Preview & Game Thread: Response needed
The Bucks host the Cavs on Oct. 31 at 7 p.m. CDT in Milwaukee, marking the final stop of Milwaukee’s three‑game home stretch after a win over Indiana and a heavy loss to Houston. Cleveland (3‑2) comes off a road defeat in Atlanta and hopes to break its 0‑2 road record. Key storylines include wing battles between rookie Peyton Watson and Jaime Jaquez Jr., and the low‑scoring assist percentages of both clubs. Jarrett Allen looks poised for a big night if the Cavs generate perimeter offense, while Bucks rookie Ryan Rollins is projected to exceed 20 points with efficient shooting. The matchup features star Donovan Mitchell and former Buck Giannis‑era guard Ryan Rollins, with the game streaming on MY24.
Bucks Reacts Survey Results: Fans are down with—not on—Jenkins’ rotations
Two weeks into the 2026‑27 NBA season, a Reuters‑style Bucks fan survey shows 72% of Milwaukee supporters praise coach Taylor Jenkins for his bold rotations and ability to maximize talent, even as the team sits with a losing record. However, 21% are only somewhat satisfied, 6% disapprove, and a small minority criticize the limited minutes given to Gary Trent Jr. amid a cap‑circumvention probe. Some fans also question the heavy usage of Myles Turner, whose early play has been underwhelming. The poll highlights rising optimism about coaching decisions while casting doubt on how long fan patience will last if wins don’t improve.
Fawning or Warning? On KPJ, rebounding, & must-haves
In the debut "Fawning or Warning?" column, Brew Hoop breaks down the Milwaukee Bucks' recent roster moves, focusing on Kevin Porter Jr.'s release. The author argues the $5.4 million, one‑year cut frees cap space for larger contracts like Caris LeVert’s $14.8 million deal, creates development time for young talents Brayden Burries and Kasparas Jakučionis, and signals a shift toward internal growth and character‑first culture under coach Taylor Jenkins. The piece also praises the Bucks’ early success on the offensive glass, suggesting the team’s new rebounding emphasis is paying off. Verdict: the Porter move is a "fawning" sign of positive direction.
Heard ‘em Say: Bucks turned down picks for KPJ, Wisconsin Herd roster roundup, Jaylen Brown, and more!
The Bucks waived Kevin Porter Jr. just before the roster deadline, rejecting a Nuggets offer of two future second‑round picks, a pick swap, and Zeke Nnaji’s $7.5 million 2027‑28 salary. Salary‑cap analysts say the decision preserves flexibility, though Porter may soon chase a point‑guard role in Europe or the NBA. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Herd finalize a 15‑man training camp roster after the G‑League draft, adding forward Brody Fox (49th pick) and featuring two‑way guards Kam Jones, Pete Nance, and Cormac Ryan. Former Herd scorers Mark Sears, Stephen Thompson and Johnny Davis have moved on, leaving the club hoping to improve on a 10‑26 season. The roundup also notes Malik Beasley’s gambling charge update and a Brewers‑related note about Nate Ament.
Bucks vs. Rockets Player Grades: Rollins and Jaquez revert (in opposite directions) in drubbing
The Houston Rockets hand the Milwaukee Bucks a 132-100 drubbing, exposing the Bucks’ rebuilding woes. Rookie Ryan Rollins struggles with a D‑grade (4 points, 2‑14 shooting) while Bucks forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. rebounds with a B‑grade (19 points, 7‑13 shooting). Houston’s Tyler Herro shines, posting 23 points on 9‑13 shooting for a B grade, and the Rockets’ defense swallows Milwaukee’s offense. Other Bucks receive mixed grades: Kuzma (D+), Turner (C‑), Ware (D), Jakucionis (C‑), Burries (C+), and AJ Green (C). The game underscores the Rockets’ title‑contending momentum and the Bucks’ need to regroup early in the season.
Rapid Recap: Rockets 132, Bucks 100
The Houston Rockets dominate the Milwaukee Bucks 132-100 on Oct. 28, 2026, at the Fiserv Forum. Fred VanVleet leads Houston with 24 points, while Amen Thompson adds 23 in the third quarter to push the lead to 95-69. Milwaukee’s Tyler Herro tops the Bucks with 23 points, but the team struggles offensively, shooting just 4‑of‑21 in the second quarter and never closing the gap. Despite a brief fourth‑quarter surge, the Bucks fall to 1‑4 on the season under coach Jenkins. The blowout highlights Houston’s balanced attack and defensive pressure against a struggling Bucks squad.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Houston Rockets Preview & Game Thread: Keep the momentum going
The Milwaukee Bucks (1‑3) aim for their first win streak of the season as they host the unbeaten Houston Rockets (4‑0) on Oct. 28 at Fiserv Forum. After a 110‑102 victory over the Pacers, the Bucks count on Tyler Herro and a settled Kel’el Ware to challenge a Rockets team led by Kevin Durant’s 23.5 PPG and Alperen Sengun (out with back soreness). With Steven Adams also sidelined, Houston will rely on Clint Capela and defensive specialist Tari Eason, who is shooting over 60% TS. Bucks bench scorer Nate Ament is projected for a double‑digit night. Game starts 7 p.m. CDT, broadcast on MY24.
Bucks likely to benefit from injuries to Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Edwards
The Bucks stand to gain from recent injury news as Raptors star Kawhi Leonard is sidelined for “a period of weeks” with left‑knee swelling and Minnesota’s Anthony Edwards faces up to two months out after an arthroscopic right‑knee procedure. Leonard’s absence means he will miss the Bucks‑Raptors NBA Cup match on Nov. 6, while Edwards could be unavailable for Milwaukee’s two games against Minnesota on Nov. 2 and Dec. 23. Both injuries give Milwaukee a clearer path in those early‑season matchups.
Bucks likely to benefit from Kawhi Leonard injury
Kawhi Leonard will miss “a period of weeks” after left‑knee swelling was revealed in an MRI that showed no structural damage, according to Shams Charania. The 35‑year‑old veteran, who only recently returned to the Raptors following the NBA’s Clippers salary‑cap investigation, is expected to sit out the Bucks‑Raptors NBA Cup matchup on November 6. While Toronto remains competitive without Leonard, the Bucks gain a tactical edge. Leonard, who has a history of right‑knee surgeries, expressed frustration on Twitter but remains focused on a quick return.
Bucks Reacts Survey: Are you happy with Taylor Jenkins’ rotations?
SB Nation Reacts polls Bucks fans on head coach Taylor Jenkins’ early‑season rotations. After narrow losses to Washington and Chicago, the Bucks have pushed Philadelphia and beaten Indiana, prompting a look at lineup choices. Jenkins starts veteran talent—Myles Turner, Kyle Kuzma, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Tyler Herro and Ryan Rollins—totaling 34 years of experience, while his ten‑man rotation features surprise sixth man Kasparas Jakučionis and a mix of young forwards Ousmane Dieng, Nate Ament, Kel’el Ware, Brayden Burries and AJ Green, who together hold just 11 years of NBA experience. Meanwhile, Gary Trent Jr., Caris LeVert, Bogoljub Marković and Jericho Sims sit on the DNP list. Readers are asked to vote on whether they approve of Jenkins’ decisions.
Bucks vs. Pacers Player Grades: Herro’s near triple-double powers Milwaukee to first victory
The Milwaukee Bucks snap their winless streak with a 110-102 victory over the Indiana Pacers on Oct. 26, 2026, highlighted by Tyler Herro’s near triple‑double (23 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists) that earns him an A‑grade. Ryan Rollins adds 19 points, while Kyle Kuzma contributes 17 points and key threes. Defensive standouts include Myles Turner’s four blocks and Kel’el Ware’s double‑double (16 points, 14 rebounds). The Pacers, shorthanded without Ivica Zubac and Andrew Nembhard, struggle in the second half of a back‑to‑back. Player grades range from Herro’s A‑ to Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s D.
Rapid Recap: Bucks 110, Pacers 102
The Milwaukee Bucks snap a three‑game losing streak with a 110‑102 win over the Indiana Pacers on Oct. 26, 2026. Tyler Herro leads the way with a near triple‑double (23 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists) while Kel’el Ware adds 16 points and 14 boards. Myles Turner fuels the fourth‑quarter surge with a steal, two blocks and crucial offensive rebounds, sparking a decisive run. Indiana’s Tyrese Haliburton tops the Pacers with 22 points and nine assists, but the Bucks’ third‑quarter rally and second‑chance points (13 of 24 in the final period) secure the season‑opening victory for the Taylor Jenkins era.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Indiana Pacers Preview & Game Thread: Season’s just started
The Milwaukee Bucks, sitting 0-3 after losses to Washington, Chicago and Philadelphia, host the 2-1 Indiana Pacers at Fiserv Forum on Oct. 26. The Bucks must address a league‑worst 129 PPG defense, while Indiana returns a healthy Tyrese Haliburton (21.7 PPG, 9.7 APG) and hot Pascal Siakam (24.7 PPG, 6 RPG). Pacers’ starting center Ivica Zubac is doubtful after an ankle sprain, giving Jay Huff a chance to start. Key storylines include the Hali‑Siakam partnership and the Bucks’ need a win to start a three‑game home stretch. Game kicks off 7 p.m. CDT, streaming on MY24.
Bucks Reacts Survey Results: Half of fans’ feelings about the team have changed, half haven’t
A recent Brew Hoop poll reveals that after a 2-3 preseason, 48% of Milwaukee Bucks fans feel their optimism is unchanged, 38% say it has waned, and only 14% feel more hopeful. Comments highlight concerns about key players like Ware and Jaquez Jr., while noting promising performances from newcomers Burries, Ament and Jakucionis. The consensus points to a “wash” in the preseason, with many fans viewing the campaign as a retool year and waiting for roster moves to shape the team’s identity.
Winners & Sinners: Week 1
Brew Hoop launches its weekly "Winners & Sinners" feature, spotlighting the Milwaukee Bucks after their opening games. Jaime Jaquez Jr. earns the inaugural Most Valuable Buck award with 20.7 PPG on 61% shooting, 8.7 RPG and 3.7 APG, while Kyle Kuzma claims the Defensive Belt for a team‑leading 27 rebounds (21 defensive). Tyler Herro’s highlight play—curling around Myles Turner for a dunk and drawing a flagrant‑1 foul—wins the Run That Back poster. The People’s Champ goes to commenter naveed2000s for breaking news on a possible Kristaps Porziņģis trade. Sinners include Myles Turner’s slump (7.7 PPG, –11.0 plus/minus) and concerns about Ryan Rollins’ offensive rhythm.
Bucks vs. 76ers Player Grades: Ware finally comes to the party, Turner forgets his invite in gallant effort
The Bucks fall 127-116 to the 76ers in Philadelphia, but the game stays tighter than the score suggests. Rookie Kel’el Ware finally shines, posting 19 points, 13 rebounds and a B+ grade, while Myles Turner struggles with a disastrous F grade after a turnover‑laden 20‑minute stretch. Jaime Jaquez Jr. delivers a solid 21‑point, 8‑rebound effort (B+), and Kyle Kuzma adds a double‑double. Tyler Herro and Ryan Rollins hover in the C‑range, and the rest of the roster receives mixed marks. The recap includes a six‑minute audio rundown on the Bucks+ podcast and a link to the full game summary.
Bucks vs. 76ers Player Grades: Ware finally comes to the party, Turner forgets his invite in gallant effort
The Bucks fall 127-116 to a still‑contending 76ers in Philadelphia, but the game stays tighter than the score suggests. Rookie Kel'el Ware finally shines with 19 points, 13 rebounds and a B+ grade, while Jaime Jaquez Jr. drops 21 and earns a B+. In contrast, Myles Turner’s 20‑minute, zero‑point night earns an F as his miscues cost Milwaukee. Ryan Rollins (C+), Tyler Herro (C-), and Kyle Kuzma (C+) post modest numbers. The piece includes a full game recap and a six‑minute audio recap on the Bucks+ podcast.
Rapid Recap: 76ers 127, Bucks 116
The Philadelphia 76ers beat the Milwaukee Bucks 127‑116 on Oct. 24, 2026, moving the Bucks to 0‑3 on the road. Joel Embiid led Philly with 28 points, while Tyrese Maxey (26) and Jaylen Brown (27) powered a second‑half surge that sealed the win. Milwaukee’s top scorer was Jaime Jaquez Jr. with 21 points, plus Kel’el Ware’s 19‑13 double‑double and Ryan Rollins’ 15. Despite a strong rebound effort – 62 boards versus 42 for Philly – the Bucks couldn’t overcome the Sixers’ mid‑range shooting and clutch plays, including Maxey’s half‑court buzzer‑beater and Brown’s late three. The loss highlights Milwaukee’s rebounding improvement but underscores defensive lapses.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Philadelphia 76ers Preview & Game Thread: David vs. Goliath?
The Milwaukee Bucks head to Philadelphia on Oct. 24, 2026, to face a stacked 76ers lineup featuring LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Jaylen Brown and Tyrese Maxey, who is averaging 30 points, 5.5 assists and 2.5 steals. The 76ers are 2‑0, winning despite poor shooting, thanks to aggressive play and a league‑leading 28.5 free‑throw attempts per game. The Bucks, 0‑2, must tighten point‑of‑attack defense and avoid fouls after a close loss to Chicago. Injuries leave LeBron questionable and several 76ers out. Projected starters pit Ryan Rollins against Maxey, with Brayden Burries expected to contribute 18 off the bench.
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