Milwaukee Bucks Podcast

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the infancy of the Milwaukee Bucks season, with the games getting under way Oct. 23. National pundits don't seem to believe Milwaukee is a title contender this year; are they wrong, or has the window closed? What's the status of the Dame/Giannis relationship, and what about Khris Middleton's health? How will the new veterans contribute, and which will truly rise to the forefront? Is Doc Rivers the right guy to lead this team forward? Who needs to truly rise up for the Bucks to take a lunge forward? National writers have seemingly lost faith in a Bucks title run; are they sleeping on what a healthy Milwaukee can do? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks went young with their two draft picks, then stayed quiet in the first 48 hours of free agency. What does that say about where the Bucks are headed for 2024-25. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the draft selections of A.J. Johnson and Tyler Smith, plus the free-agent signing of Delon Wright. What's left on the table for the Bucks to accomplish? Does a trade remain a realistic option? Who are some players still available for veteran minimum contracts that fit Milwaukee? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks writers Jim Owczarski and Ben Steele join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the upcoming NBA draft. Will the Bucks keep the players they select, and if so, which players are most intriguing? How does Milwaukee's financial situation play into the picture. Can they trade a veteran and still get better? Ben discusses what he expects for the Marquette University players in the draft. Plus: Can the Bucks really hang with this Celtics team next year? And the return of Darvin Ham. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Snakebitten by injuries, the Milwaukee Bucks saw their 2023-24 season come to an unceremonious end in a 4-2 series loss to the Indiana Pacers. Was it just bad luck or something more fundamental? Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski gives a farewell to the season and also looks ahead. Will Milwaukee simply run it back? Is Jon Horst headed to Detroit? What do we make of the coaching carousel in retrospect? Where does Milwaukee need to specifically improve? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and Pacers reporter Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star take a look at the looming clash between the two NBA squads in the first round of the 2024 postseason. What's the latest on the injuries? How have these teams changed since their regular-season meetings ended in early January? Who's got the edge? Plus: Predictions and more on Oshkosh, Wisconsin, native Tyrese Haliburton and his budding stardom in Indianapolis. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel columnist Lori Nickel stops by to discuss the bigger picture of the Milwaukee Bucks after a chaotic 2023-24 season. Was firing Mike Budenholzer the right move? What about hiring Doc Rivers and quickly moving on from Adrian Griffin? What about the trade for superstar Damian Lillard? How will this offseason look if the Bucks flame out early in the NBA playoffs? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe dive into the first-round playoff series between Milwaukee and the Indiana Pacers. What's the latest on the injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo, and can they win the series without him? How will this moment impact the overall perception of Doc Rivers and Damian Lillard? What's changed since Indiana took four of five against Milwaukee in the regular season? Will tensions be high after some emotional regular-season battles? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Milwaukee Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the Bucks' woeful skid toward the postseason with a series of losses at the time of year teams want to be peaking. Is it a mirage, or have they really lost control of the season? What does this mean for Doc Rivers? For Damian Lillard? For the possibility that a championship window is closing? They break it all down with four regular-season games left in 2023-24.

Jim Owczarski, Lori Nickel and JR Radcliffe discuss the Bucks at the all-star break, including Damian Lillard's massive weekend in Indianapolis. What's up with all these weird Bucks sound bites in all-star week interviews? Is this team courting some extra drama, and if so, does that means things have gotten a little desperate? Is the Bucks success as simple as Lillard achieving consistency? What do we make of Doc Rivers so far? Also: Danilo Gallinari? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the Milwaukee Bucks' maneuvers at the NBA trade deadline in this edition of the Point Forward Podcast. How will Patrick Beverley fit? What was the purpose of trading Robin Lopez if it doesn't put the Bucks in better financial position? How alarming is Milwaukee's recent play under new coach Doc Rivers, with five losses in six games? What's Jim watching for at the upcoming NBA all-star game? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks made a big splash on Tuesday, firing first-year head coach Adrian Griffin and replacing him with long-tenured coach and Marquette University alumnus Doc Rivers. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to break down the maneuver. Why was now the time to make a change? What did the Bucks get wrong about Griffin in the hiring process? Will a gambit like this work, considering the Bucks had a 30-13 record under Griffin? Is Doc Rivers the right fit for this team? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporters Lori Nickel and Jim Owczarski join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the slumping Milwaukee Bucks, who have lost 4 of 5 to start the 2024 half of the season and still haven't fully clicked despite a great record. What has to happen for the Bucks to get back on a championship path? What's the latest evaluation on head coach Adrian Griffin? Is it as simple as Damian Lillard getting back on track? Or Jae Crowder returning? Or getting Bobby Portis in a groove?

A wild scene unfolded at Fiserv Forum on Dec. 13, when Giannis Antetokounmpo set a Bucks single-game record with 64 points but then got into a heated exchange with the Indiana Pacers over possession of the game ball. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski discusses what he saw in the Bucks win, what in the world happened and whether or not it ties into the frustration of early-season struggles (albeit struggles that have still come with a good win-loss record). Jim and host JR Radcliffe look back at the reporting around Bobby Portis' challenge of head coach Adrian Griffin following the loss in Las Vegas, and it's another chance to get a progress report on how the Bucks have developed.  Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe are back to give an early-season progress report on the Bucks. After a shaky start, have they turned a corner? Specifically, has head coach Adrian Griffin rapidly evolved after some early struggles? How has the Damian Lillard-Giannis Antetokounmpo dynamic played out? How much thought and worry should we put into the Khris Middleton return-to-full-strength timetable, and how bad of a loss is Jae Crowder? Plus: Malik Beasley, Andre Jackson, Giannis still taking long-distance shots and the upcoming litmus test with Boston and Jrue Holiday. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss the new extension for Giannis Antetokounmpo, one that caught everyone by surprise Monday night. Including the guys who already had a podcast ready to go ... oops. After discussing the elements that led Giannis to stay on in Milwaukee, they look at the season preview as a whole, including the massive acquisition of Damian Lillard. What will Milwaukee's defense look like this year? What questions remain about first-year head coach Adrian Griffin, especially after assistant coach Terry Stotts resigned? What do we make of newcomers Cameron Payne, Malik Beasley and even Robin Lopez? Who's the favorite in the East? The guys make some predictions and get you set for the season opener Thursday. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks became the surprise winner of the Damian Lillard sweepstakes Wednesday, acquiring the Portland Trail Blazers star in a three-way deal that sent Jrue Holiday and Grayson Allen elsewhere. The Bucks now find themselves as the favorite to win the East, and maybe the NBA title. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss what level of urgency, if any, Bucks GM Jon Horst was operating in making the deal. Should we have seen this coming, given the previous friendliness between Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo? Should we be concerned it's not Miami, his reported preferred destination? Could it backfire? How does it change the shape of the Bucks? Will the Bucks fill that last roster spot with Allen's replacement in the starting lineup? Did this really just happen? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

What were the takeaways, if any, for the Milwaukee Bucks from the summer league? Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski is back from Las Vegas with some thoughts, limited as they might be for the 2023-24 regular-season Bucks. He talks about his conversation with general manager Jon Horst, including the revelation that the Bucks are past the second tax apron. What does that mean in the short term and long term? Who's going to shoot the ball for the Bucks this year? What's the latest on Giannis Antetokounmpo and his availability for the FIBA World Cup? What do we make of the new in-season tournament? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

So much has happened since the last podcast, including the re-signing of Khris Middleton, Brook Lopez, Jae Crowder and ... surprise! ... Robin Lopez and Malik Beasley. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski looks at the entire free agency situation and what it says about Adrian Griffin's coaching philosophy, Milwaukee's chances next year and the future of Giannis Antetokounmpo. Jim and host JR Radcliffe discuss what comes next for Thanasis Antetokounmpo, who doesn't currently have a roster spot. How are the Bucks going to obtain a backup point guard? What will Jim be watching for in Vegas at the summer league games? What do we make of draft picks Andre Jackson Jr. and Chris Livingston? Should Bucks fans be suspicious of how quietly the team announced that Giannis had knee surgery? Are the Bucks still a favorite in the Eastern Conference? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks officially have a new head coach with the announcement of Adrian Griffin as the lead man. Reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel were there, and they discuss with podcast host JR Radcliffe their takeaways from the press conference. How will he fit with the current roster (including the players who are free agents)? Will he fortify a strong relationship with Giannis? What about the domestic abuse allegations levied by his ex-wife in 2020 (leading to Griffin filing a defamation lawsuit)? Are there any other story lines to care about beyond Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez in the upcoming free-agency scramble? What about the draft? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Jim, Lori and JR are back to discuss Adrian Griffin, the former Raptors assistant who's reportedly about to become the next head coach of the Milwaukee Bucks. They talk about his fit as a player and a person, the role of Giannis Antetokounmpo in the search, the uncertainty of a hire without head-coaching experience, the accusations of domestic abuse from 2020 (and the lawsuit he brought against his accuser, his ex-wife) and what questions still remain about the hire and the process.  Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Admittedly, we recorded this just before news that the Bucks coaching search has zoomed in on Nick Nurse, Kenny Atkinson and Adrian Griffin, but Journal Sentinel reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe look at where things stand in the Bucks coaching search, what traits the team is looking for and what kind of timeline might exist for an announcement. Then, it's a look to the future. What are the odds Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez be back? How much will the new coach influence that decision? And what about Giannis Antetokounmpo? He's here next year, but would he theoretically want out the year after that if the Bucks aren't making strides, and how do the economics of basketball complicate that type of situation? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

While teams are playing in the conference semifinals, the Milwaukee Bucks are looking for a new coach. Quite the unexpected turn of events! Reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the end of Mike Budenholzer's tenure with the Bucks after five seasons following a shocking first-round playoff exit, and we have many questions. Would this move have happened anyway if the Bucks beat the Heat? Are we sure Milwaukee can find someone better? Who are the candidates to take his place? Does the timing, without someone new ready to step in, tell us anything about the process? How much is Giannis Antetokounmpo involved? Do we have to think about Marc Lasry's decision to sell his ownership stake differently now? Will the Bucks even have another opportunity to win a championship in the Giannis Era? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The 2023 season is over, ending in a shocking five-game loss to the Miami Heat. Bucks reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the improbable setback, capped by a 16-point meltdown in Game 5 at Fiserv Forum. What are the root causes for the loss? What do they make of Mike Budenholzer's decision not to use timeouts in certain situations, and what about his rotation and other coaching maneuvers? Will this team have a new head coach next year, or should it? Jim has an interesting take on Giannis Antetokounmpo's comments on failure after the game as well as his play throughout the series.  Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks are in a massive bind after a meltdown in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference first round, facing a 3-1 deficit and the prospect of being eliminated by the No. 8 seed. Jim Owczarski and JR Radcliffe discuss the shocking result, the injury and health status of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the struggles of Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday (and everyone else, for that matter), and the future of Bucks coach Mike Budenholzer if this ends in defeat. But can we discount this team's ability to bounce back and win the series? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Jim Owczarski, Lori Nickel and JR Radcliffe look at a lopsided Game 2 win at Fiserv Forum on April 19, during which the Milwaukee Bucks tied an NBA record with 25 three-pointers. Without Giannis Antetokounmpo, it was a winning combination and helped Milwaukee even the first-round series at 1-1. Why was Pat Connaughton, one of the stars of the night, missing from the late-season rotation again? Have we talked enough about Joe Ingles? Brook Lopez, after being passed over for Defensive Player of the Year, shines again. It was a thrilling night, but can the Miami Heat still mount on obstacle without injured Tyler Herro? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Bucks are facing another 0-1 series deficit after a setback against the Miami Heat on Sunday, one that featured an injury to Giannis Antetokounmpo. What was the temperature around the team postgame? Journal Sentinel writers Lori Nickel and Jim Owczarski join host JR Radcliffe to discuss the landscape if Giannis can't play in Game 2 and what the Heat showed that might be sustainable going forward. They also discuss the finality of the Haslams purchasing Marc Lasry's ownership stock in the franchise and Jim's ballots for the various postseason awards; will Brook Lopez be awarded Defensive Player of the Year on Monday night? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Host JR Radcliffe is joined by ESPN West Palm's Ken LaVicka, who offers insight into the Milwaukee Bucks' first-round playoff opponent, the Miami Heat. How does a team go from the top seed in the East to the eighth in one year with roughly the same roster? How does Miami perceive Marquette University alumnus Jimmy Butler and Whitnall High School graduate Tyler Herro? Is Bam Adebayo still seen as a Giannis Stopper? Is it at least possible this team offers Milwaukee a threat? The two teams will square off Sunday in Game 1. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

It's a full house for a lengthy Point Forward Podcast, with Jim Owczarski, Lori Nickel, Ben Steele and JR Radcliffe looking at the best of the 2022-23 season. Who was the team's non-Giannis MVP? What was the best game? The biggest surprise? The coolest moment? They also discuss the team's relative health heading into the playoffs, especially Khris Middleton. Is he going to be here next year? Plus, another look at the flour possible opponents in the first round, which begins Sunday (but Milwaukee won't know the foe until Friday). Should Ray Allen's jersey be up in the rafters? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Journal Sentinel reporters Ben Steele, Lori Nickel and Jim Owczarski join host JR Radcliffe to discuss Milwaukee's lopsided loss to Boston and how it impacts the confidence that Milwaukee can indeed win the Eastern Conference. At least the team bounced back with a big win over Philadelphia on Sunday. Plus: Could the 76ers realistically supplant either Boston or Milwaukee? What would a potential long-term Grayson Allen do to the lineup? How about Thanasis Antetokounmpo's one-game suspension for a head butt? A look back at the notable events in a win over Indiana, with one player netting a triple-double (Giannis) and another scoring 51 points (Jrue). What are the stories everyone will remember from the 2022-23 regular season now that it's heading to an end? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

In past years, the Milwaukee Bucks have played down their interest in grabbing the top seed in the Eastern Conference, but it's different this year. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the home stretch of the season, including a looming battle with the Celtics. The guys look back at a meeting vs. top dogs in Denver (sadly on the back half of a back-to-back), the imminent arrival of Goran Dragić to the floor, more on the Brook Lopezaissance and what his status would be for next year with the Bucks and whether or not Giannis Antetokounmpo's MVP chances are dead (spoiler alert: Not yet!!). Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Columnist Lori Nickel and beat writer Jim Owczarski examine the Bucks' playoff roster depth, their "invisible" starter and Giannis Antetokounmpo's vision. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Marquette Golden Eagles reporter Ben Steele joins host JR Radcliffe to discuss the Marquette men's basketball team's draw in the NCAA Tournament, including a No. 2 seed and first-round meeting with Vermont. They look at the potential matchups that await, including with No. 1 seed Purdue, and gauge how strong their chances are. Where does MU rank this season relative to other teams in recent history?

Bucks reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to look at the NBA awards race; what are the realistic chances for Giannis Antetokounmpo (MVP), Brook Lopez (Defensive Player of the Year) and Bobby Portis (Sixth Man of the Year) to win some postseason hardware as we hit the home stretch of the 2022-23 season? First, Giannis must get healthy; how concerned is Jim about that nagging hand injury? The trio discuss Brook's big game in the block column, Khris Middleton making his first start since a return from injury, the team's turnover issues proving costly against Golden State and Pat Connaughton's connection with Marquette's MVP. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The epic Milwaukee Bucks winning streak is snapped at 16 games, though the team quickly picked up a new one and have the best record in the NBA. Bucks reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to discuss that and the newest member of the Milwaukee Bucks, Goran Dragić. Is it strange that Jae Crowder wasn't used down the stretch against Philadelphia. How serious are the red flags around the team's usage of Khris Middleton? How do we feel about Giannis Antetokounmpo looking for a triple-double (only to have it taken away) with some late stat-padding? Also, a bit about the Skip Bayless nonsense from earlier in the week in which he took Giannis out of context and What's Making Jim (and Lori!) mad. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

This isn't an episode about the Milwaukee Bucks, but it is about another big Milwaukee basketball story. Host JR Radcliffe and Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporter Ben Steele chat about the Marquette men's team, which went from picked ninth in the preseason to outright champion in the Big East Conference. What's made Shaka Smart so effective in his second season, even without liberal use of the transfer portal this year? Can he win national coach of the year? Why has the team risen above expectations? What makes them a tough out in the tournament, and what makes them vulnerable? Both Marquette and the Bucks play at home Saturday, so expect a fun doubleheader of Cream City hoops. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

It's a newsy Point Forward Podcast this week, starting with an official agreement between Bucks owner Marc Lasry and Jimmy Haslam for a 25% stake in the team. Jim Owczarski, Lori Nickel and JR Radcliffe of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel discuss that as well as the on-the-court stories in the midst of a 14-game winning streak. Giannis Antetokounmpo was back from one injury but incurred another. Are we sure Khris Middleton is going to return to starting games? Just what is the ceiling for newly returned Bobby Portis? What are the early impressions of Jae Crowder with his new team? Will the Bucks ever lose again? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

 Journal Sentinel columnist Lori Nickel fills in for J.R. Radcliffe and Nickel and Bucks beat writer Jim Owczarski break down the latest on Giannis Antetokounmpo, who suffered in a right wrist injury in the Milwaukee Bucks' last game before the NBA all-star break, and while he participated in the weekend he is heading further testing. They also recap the entire all-star weekend and talk about Milwaukee's bid for the 2025 or 2026 showcase. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Could there be a new owner in town soon? Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski, columnist Lori Nickel and host JR Radcliffe look at the report that Marc Lasry has had conversations with Dee and Jimmy Haslam about taking over his 25% ownership stake. How should Bucks fans feel about the potential move? On the court, the Bucks have won 10 in a row with a Valentine's Day battle with mighty Boston just ahead. Could the Bucks have a 12-game winning streak headed into the all-star break? Plus: When will we see Jae Crowder and, in light of Giannis making an appearance, we have to talk Super Bowl ads. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks made a deal at the trade deadline, bringing in Jae Crowder, the NBA veteran and Marquette University alumnus who's long been linked to the Bucks. Jim Owczarski, Lori Nickel and JR Radcliffe discuss his fit on the team, the price the Bucks paid to get him, the two open roster spots that remain and the shape of the league after the dust settles from this year's deadline. Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

It's trade deadline week; will the Bucks finally land Jae Crowder, or someone else? Or make no move at all? Bucks reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to chat about that and Jrue Holiday, who's back in the all-star game for the first time in 10 years. Are the Brooklyn Nets officially no longer a threat following their trade of Kyrie Irving, and how does that move shape the trade landscape? They also discuss Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's greatness with the Milwaukee Bucks as his longstanding NBA scoring record is about to fall, and possibly against the Bucks on Thursday. Plus, in light of another ridiculous Giannis performance and endearing postgame moment, what food item is worth getting in a unit of 50 or more? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo." Update Description

Khris Middleton is finally back on the floor for the Bucks, albeit on a minutes restriction, but an injury to Bobby Portis once again means Milwaukee has to play short-handed. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss what those things mean, plus Giannis Antetokounmpo once again taking over to lead his team on a run of victories. He'll be an all-star captain once again. What about his free-throw shooting though? And just how big of a threat are the Philadelphia 76ers? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton are finally healthy enough to return for the Milwaukee Bucks, and now's the time for the Bucks to rack up some wins with the schedule ahead. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss that and the situation with Serge Ibaka, who's asked to leave the team. The trade deadline continues to loom over everything. Plus: Grayson Allen is a better defender than we realize and Giannis at the Oscars? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

Are alarm bells sounding for the Milwaukee Bucks? Journal Sentinel reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss Milwaukee's recent up-and-down play, most recently with a rally for victory Monday against Indiana. Khris Middleton has been out for a prolonged stay and Giannis has missed three games in a row; at some point, when does this become a serious problem for the Bucks? Can the team keep pace in the crowded East, or is it in danger of dipping to play-in status? Now that we're midway through January, where are we at on the trade or roster-change front? We saw George Hill and Wesley Matthews deliver Monday; will we see more of them going forward? Plus: what's making Jim mad? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Bucks' protracted rut continued last week even with a brief respite against Minnesota. Bucks reporter Jim Owczarski and host JR Radcliffe discuss Milwaukee's continued struggles with injuries and shooting the basketball. Podcaster Bill Simmons suggested the Bucks have chemistry issues ... is that right? And how should the average Bucks fan feel about news that Marc Lasry might be selling his stake in the team?  Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."

The Milwaukee Bucks are suddenly in a rut, unable to shoot the ball and falling to three straight powerful Eastern Conference foes. Just how much should we worry? Host JR Radcliffe is joined by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel to discuss the losses, including a Christmas Day setback in Boston. How concerning has Khris Middleton's injury gotten? What's holding back the Milwaukee role players? Can Grayson Allen hang with Boston? What's the early impression of Joe Ingles? Is it possible we see more MarJon? Plus, what's making Jim mad? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo.

The Milwaukee Bucks prepare to add Joe Ingles to the floor this week, roughly 10 months after ACL reconstructive surgery. How will Milwaukee's offseason addition impact what the Bucks have going on? Bucks reporters Jim Owczarski and Lori Nickel join host JR Radcliffe to discuss that and more about the team with the top record in the NBA. Milwaukee beats the Warriors, suffers a burn-the-tape moment against Memphis and then downs the Jazz without Giannis and Khris. Is there any method to the madness for when the club holds Antetokounmpo out of a game? Mamu and MarJon get another moment to shine. Brook Lopez is impacting everything. The Boston tilt on Christmas could be one of the more interesting data points of the season. Plus, does Lori know what some Australian slang expressions mean? Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo.

The Bucks had a good week, but a rough night in Houston spoils the porridge. Khris Middleton is out again; will the Bucks be using him sparingly the rest of the year? Milwaukee Journal Sentinel columnist Lori Nickel and host JR Radcliffe discuss the week's events, including a massive game-winner from Brook Lopez and the odds that he's around next year. Plus, Lori talks about her interview with MarJon Beauchamp and the many hurdles he faced on his way to the NBA.  Music intro produced by Olivia Reiner and voiced by Michelle Rutkowski. Music during segments from SoundCloud, "Pursuit Music Logo."