Bucks
The frustration boiled over Tuesday night in Milwaukee.
Bucks fans booed their team during a blowout loss to the Timberwolves, and Giannis Antetokounmpo responded in kind. After scoring early in the third quarter and getting knocked to the floor on a foul, Antetokounmpo flashed a two-thumbs-down gesture and booed the home crowd while seated under the basket, according to ESPN’s Jamal Collier.
Antetokounmpo has used the same gesture toward opposing crowds this season and said location does not matter.
“Whenever I get booed, I boo back,” he said. “I play basketball for my teammates, for myself and my family.”
The two-time MVP added that while he understands fan frustration, he does not believe he should be policed for how he reacts after 13 seasons with the franchise.
Milwaukee dropped to 17-23 with the loss and remains on the outside of the playoff picture.
Pacers
Coach Rick Carlisle has repeatedly highlighted the progress of Jarace Walker, per Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star.
Walker recorded 11 points and seven rebounds in 25 minutes off the bench during Monday’s win over Boston, earning praise for his physicality and decision-making.
“He’s playing with force,” Carlisle said. “He’s playing with force at both ends. He’s done a lot of good things defensively. He’s rebounding the ball. Stepping into the right shots. As a third-year player, things are going to slow down as you progress in your career. Reads become more obvious. He’s making good decisions.”
Pistons
Detroit holds a Traded Player Exception that allows it to absorb up to $14.3 million in salary, and Hunter Patterson of The Athletic outlined several potential targets.
Among the names mentioned were Bobby Portis, Kelly Olynyk, Luke Kennard, Sam Hauser and Max Christie.
If the Pistons do not use the exception by the deadline, it will remain available through July 7.
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