This past week was not kind to the Milwaukee Bucks, whose 1-3 record allowed the Cleveland Cavaliers to pass them in the Central standings. While the Eastern Conference standings hold more weight as far as the playoff picture, this latest development serves as a reminder of what’s happened to the defending NBA champions lately. Pat Connaughton has not been immune to this up-and-down stretch. His play has aligned well with his team’s performances.
The Bucks began the past week Dec. 13 by losing to the Boston Celtics in the second of a back-to-back. Connaughton scored 15 points and came one rebound short of his first double-double short this season. The Bucks’ lone win of the week came Dec. 15 against the Indiana Pacers. Connaughton got the start and shined with 20 points and 4-of-5 shooting from 3-point range.
Connaughton started again Dec. 17 at the New Orleans Pelicans and had a balanced outing of nine points and nine rebounds. When the Bucks faced the Cavaliers on Dec. 18, Connaughton had only three points for his lowest scoring output since being shut out in the Bucks’ championship clincher last season. Still, he had a decent week with 11.8 points and 5.3 rebounds a game. He also shot 44.7 percent from the field.