The Milwaukee Bucks were finally able to put an end to their seven-game losing streak over the weekend, defeating the Brooklyn Nets to improve to 9-12 on the season. With two contests against the East-leading Detroit Pistons on their horizon, Monday night against the Washington Wizards was another chance for this team to get right.

Given Giannis Antetokounmpo missed a handful of games and was finally back in the lineup, things were trending up in Milwaukee, especially when you factor in Kevin Porter Jr.'s return as well. However, it was a disaster in the nation's capital for the Bucks, as poor execution in the second half led to the Wizards securing their 3rd win of the season.

Doc Rivers Voices Frustration

Of course, it wasn't a happy Bucks team, which lost despite shooting 55% from the field and 55% from three. After the game, head coach Doc Rivers was candid with his feelings after the game.

"I didn't think we played right most of the night, personally. They had 18 more shots than us," Rivers said. "...We played so well the other night, rebounded well, and then tonight, I just felt frustrated the entire night. I really did. I just didn't think we played with the right something. We played like we thought we were going to win the game."

Milwaukee carried a 66-58 lead heading into halftime, and built its lead up to as much as 16 points in the third quarter. After that, it all started to go downhill for the Bucks, as the game was neck and neck all the way down to the final whistle.

Takeaways

As for positives, it was strong offensive showings from Kevin Porter Jr. and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who combined for 56 points on efficient shooting. However, it wasn't the offense that was poor, but the ball security and defensive rebounding by the Bucks.

The Wizards had 15 offensive rebounds, and the Bucks had 17 turnovers, contributing to the Wizards having 18 more shots than the Bucks.

Even though the Wizards are one of the worst teams in the NBA, the Bucks can't walk out there and play like they're going to win, as Rivers said in the postgame press conference.

What's Ahead

Now with a 2-8 record in their last 10 games, the road ahead isn't any easier for the Bucks. They'll face the Pistons at home on Wednesday night, then welcome the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday before heading on the road to face the Pistons yet again on Saturday.

If struggles continue in Milwaukee, question marks around Giannis' future with the franchise will be continuously brought up.