Fans shared their varied responses to TNT’s decision to switch away from the Celtics-Bucks game, which took a turn for the worse for the Celtics by halftime, with the Bucks holding a substantial 38-point lead. Some viewers attributed the Celtics’ performance to playing on the second leg of a back-to-back, while others defended TNT’s decision, acknowledging the lopsided nature of the game.
Charles Barkley, part of TNT’s panel, had earlier praised the Celtics as the best team in the NBA, but this sentiment seemed poorly timed following the Celtics’ 33-point loss to the Bucks. Despite the defeat, the Celtics maintained a three-game lead over the Bucks in the Eastern Conference and were dealing with fatigue from a hectic schedule.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla opted to bench starters at the beginning of the second half, a move that potentially influenced TNT’s decision to temporarily halt the broadcast due to the absence of key players. The Bucks eventually secured a decisive 135-102 victory, bouncing back from a challenging start to 2024.
Bucks players, including Damian Lillard and Malik Beasley, highlighted their team’s exceptional effort, physicality, and attention to detail throughout the game. Coach Adrian Griffin commended the team’s response, stating they played like champions, and the victory was significant in reestablishing their identity after a string of disappointing performances.
Milwaukee’s defensive prowess was a standout aspect, holding the Celtics to 32% shooting in the first half and disrupting their 3-point attempts. The challenge for the Bucks now is to consistently perform at this high level, maintaining cohesion and chemistry even when not facing extreme circumstances. Giannis Antetokounmpo expressed optimism that the win could strengthen the team’s belief in each other and contribute to sustained success.
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