Brew Hoop
Milwaukee Bucks News and Analysis Since 2007
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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.
Bucks vs. Bulls Player Grades: Ryan Rollins’ early-season struggles persist in regrettable loss
The Milwaukee Bucks lose a winnable 132-125 game to the Chicago Bulls, with turnovers and missed free throws proving costly. Rookie Ryan Rollins struggles again, posting 11 points on 3‑of‑9 shooting, six turnovers and earning a D grade. In contrast, Tyler Herro shines with 34 points on 12‑of‑24 shooting and an A‑ grade, while Jaime Jaquez Jr. contributes 19 points, 11 rebounds and a B. Kyle Kuzma adds 14 points and a B‑, but Myles Turner’s 12 points and five blocks aren’t enough, leading to a D rating. The review highlights the Bucks’ early-season issues as they face tougher playoff‑bound opponents.
Rapid Recap: Bulls 132, Bucks 125
The Milwaukee Bucks slip to a 0-2 start after a 132-125 home loss to the Chicago Bulls on Oct. 23, 2026. Tyler Herro, now in a Bucks jersey, leads with 34 points, five rebounds and four assists, while Norman Powell (25) and Caleb Wilson (21) power the Bulls. The game sees multiple lead changes, a crucial late free‑throw disparity (Bucks 14/26, Bulls 26/28), and a controversial blocking foul on Kasparas Jakučionis that helps Chicago seal the win. Despite a late Herro surge, Milwaukee cannot overcome the Bulls' shooting rhythm and falters in the fourth quarter.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Chicago Bulls Preview & Game Thread: Fans, meet the young Bucks
The Bucks face the Bulls in a crucial preseason showdown at Fiserv Forum on Oct. 23, 2026, with both teams eager for a win before a daunting schedule. Milwaukee, holding a clean injury slate, must adapt to Chicago’s high‑tempo style driven by Josh Giddey and Norman Powell, while staying mindful of the Bulls’ pace‑centric offense. Chicago, reeling from a 135‑92 loss to the Raptors, deals with several injuries (Nic Claxton out, others questionable) and leans on rookie Leonard Miller, who is averaging 17.3 points and shooting 54.5% from three in the preseason. The preview highlights Kel’el Ware’s potential to dominate the smaller Bulls frontcourt, projecting a 15‑point, 12‑rebounds performance as the key to Milwaukee’s success.
Milwaukee Bucks NBA 2K27 simulation: Part 1
Brew Hoop runs two NBA 2K27 simulations to gauge the Milwaukee Bucks' fate after a disastrous real‑life roster. In the user‑controlled scenario, the Bucks start by waiving Pete Nance and field a surprising lineup—Kevin Porter Jr., Tyler Herro, Kyle Kuzma, Jaime Jaquez Jr., and Kel’el Ware. By the All‑Star break they sit 13th in the East (18‑41) after a 3‑21 start, trading Myles Turner for Draymond Green. Tyler Herro leads with 18.4 PPG, Kel’el Ware posts 10.4 RPG and 1.8 BPG, and Ryan Rollins tops assists. The Bucks finish 31‑51, just missing the play‑in, but improve defensively to 16th in the league. Off‑season moves include promoting Darvin Ham and losing key pieces to free agency, hinting at a rebuilding future.
Bucks vs. Wizards Player Grades: “The Heat package” leads in encouraging loss
The Milwaukee Bucks fall 128-116 to a revitalized Washington Wizards despite controlling much of the game. The "Heat package"—Tyler Herro (24 points, 9 assists) and Jaime Jaquez Jr. (22 points, 7 rebounds)—combined for 68 points, but the Bucks couldn’t protect an eight‑point lead. Player grades reveal Ryan Rollins slipping to a D‑, Herro earning a B‑ for his playmaking, Jaquez receiving a B for efficient scoring and defense, and Kyle Kuzma struggling with a woeful performance. The article critiques the Bucks' frantic, rushed style and previews a rematch on Friday, with a full game recap and a six‑minute podcast available.
Rapid Recap: Wizards 128, Bucks 116
The Washington Wizards debut the season with a 128-116 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, ending Milwaukee's post‑Giannis opening night loss. Anthony Davis dominates, dropping 34 points and nine rebounds, while the Wizards outpaint the Bucks 70-50 in the fourth quarter. Tyler Herro leads Milwaukee with 24 points and nine assists, and bench scorer Kasparas Jakucionis adds 15, but turnovers and 32 fouls (41 free‑throw attempts) cripple the Bucks. Jaime Jaquez Jr. sparks Washington with 22 points and seven rebounds, earning a call for a larger role. The win highlights Washington’s strong interior play and Milwaukee’s early‑season growing pains.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Washington Wizards Preview & Game Thread: Two new eras begin
The Bucks kick off a new era tonight, playing their first game without Giannis Antetokounmpo in 13 years against a reloaded Washington Wizards. Milwaukee entered preseason 2‑3, focusing on defense and rebounding under coach Taylor Jenkins, while Washington emerges from a rebuild highlighted by a lottery pick AJ Dybantsa (out with an ankle injury) and a blockbuster trade that landed Trae Young, Anthony Davis and Deandre Ayton. The preview flags key injuries (Nate Ament probable, several Wizards players sidelined) and identifies Young as the primary player to watch. If the Bucks execute selfless, defensive basketball, they stand a good chance to beat a Wizards squad still finding its identity.
Join us for the 2026-27 Bucks season on the SB Nation app
Brew Hoop announces that the SB Nation app, now live in North America and rolling out globally, lets Bucks fans join a real‑time game chat, post and read comments faster, and see community Feed posts alongside site articles. After a busy preseason test, the app has set single‑day commenting records three times in recent weeks. Available for iOS and Android, it promises fewer ads, seamless community navigation, and instant notifications for replies—making the 2026‑27 Bucks season more interactive.
NBA Opening Day open thread
Brew Hoop’s opening‑day thread previews the six NBA games kicking off on Oct. 20, 2026, while the Milwaukee Bucks wait to debut against Washington tomorrow. Highlights include Boston vs. Detroit at 2 p.m. CT (NBC/Peacock), the newly‑formed Philadelphia 76ers—now featuring Jaylen Brown after his trade—taking on the Knicks at 6 p.m., and OKC versus the Spurs at 8:30 p.m. with Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander and rookie Victor Wembanyama in the mix. The post also notes a media‑day photo of Brown, Embiid, LeBron and others, and invites fans to drop comments throughout the day.
Bucks preseason notebook
After five preseason games, the Milwaukee Bucks show both promise and growing pains under coach Kyle Jenkins. Rebounding spikes dramatically—offensive boards jump to 35.9% (5th in the league) and defensive boards to 69.5% (15th)—fueling a surge to third‑most field‑goal attempts (94.2 per game) and third‑most three‑point tries (46.4 per game). The pace improves to 10th (104.5) and shot‑blocking climbs to 5.4 BPG (10th). Yet the Bucks still rank near the bottom in offensive rating (28th) and defensive rating (22nd), with shooting accuracy (30th) and fast‑break defense (29th) lagging. Kel’el Ware’s lackluster effort and attitude spark debate, while rookie Brayden Burries and Ousmane Dieng earn early trust as key substitutes. The notebook outlines these trends as the team heads into the regular season.
Bucks sign Pete Nance to (another) two-way deal
The Milwaukee Bucks re‑signed forward Pete Nance to a two‑way contract for a third season, marking his final year of two‑way eligibility. After briefly waiving him to meet roster limits, the team secured Nance before another club could snap him up, avoiding a costly standard deal. Coach Mike Budenholzer plans to use Nance primarily with the Bucks rather than the G League Herd, despite his solid 2025‑26 stats of 5.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.0 assist and 42% from three in 15.7 minutes per game.