Houston Rockets' Five-Game Winning Streak Ends with Loss to Milwaukee Bucks

With Damian Lillard scoring a season-high 39 points, the Houston Rockets sustained a disappointing defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks.

The Houston Rockets' five-game winning streak ended Sunday night in a 128-119 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. 

It was the first time the Rockets played against Damian Lillard since he erupted for 71 points as a member of the Portland Trail Blazers last season. But despite having a different jersey, Lillard still proved to be a tough defensive assignment. He tied his season-high with 39 points on 11 of 19 shooting, 5 of 8 from behind the arc. He also added 11 assists in the win.

Despite an injury scare early in the first quarter, Fred VanVleet led the Rockets with a team-best 22 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Alperen Şengün added 20 points, eight rebounds and five assists in the loss.

The Rockets played the Bucks close, but Milwaukee was able to take control of the game due to their rebounding. The Bucks out-rebounded the Rockets 46-31, with Giannis Antetokounmpo accounting for 17 boards to go along with 22 points.

All five starters scored in double figures. After scoring a season-high against the Memphis Grizzlies Friday night, Dillon Brooks added 18, while Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. scored 16 points, respectively.

Rockets guard Fred VanVleet (5) brings the ball up the court against Milwaukee Bucks at Fiserv Forum / Michael McLoone-USA TODAY Sports

Another missed game for Amen Thompson:

Rookie guard Amen Thompson has had a hard time trying to stay on the court. Thompson missed his second consecutive game due to an illness. However, by sitting out against the Bucks, it marked the 17th time Thompson has been sidelined. He missed 15 straight games due to a Grade 2 ankle injury. 

Up Next:

The Rockets will close their three-game road trip Monday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers. They will then return to the Toyota Center Wednesday to take on the Dallas Mavericks. Tip-off between the Rockets and Cavaliers is slated for 6:00 p.m. CDT inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.