The big winner of the game was Anfernee Simons, who thrived up against his former mentor and teammate. He dropped 25 points on 9-of-17 shooting and had one moment in the third quarter when he was able to shake off Lillard in a manner similar to what Lillard has done to opposing players throughout his career.

The biggest issue for the Bucks in this game was trying to contain Deni Avdija. The 24-year-old put up a season-high 30 points in 38 minutes. Deandre Ayton, returning to the lineup after a three-game absence, recorded his third straight double-double (21 points, 14 rebounds).

Milwaukee definitely looked like an older team playing its second game in as many nights. Khris Middleton, after playing 27 minutes against the Utah Jazz on Monday, had zero points in 15 minutes against the Blazers. This is the second time in three games he’s been held scoreless.

Giannis Antetokounmpo did all he could to carry the Bucks with 39 points, 12 rebounds and five assists. He’s recorded a double-double in 17 consecutive games, including three straight games with at least 30 points and 10 rebounds.

Even though the Bucks have figured out some of the issues that contributed to their slow start this season, playing on the road remains a problem. They are now 9-12 away from Fiserv Forum.

Lillard and the Bucks will wrap up their four-game Western Conference road trip on Friday when they take on the San Antonio Spurs at Frost Bank Center.