The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the host Charlotte Hornets, 105-96, at Spectrum Center on Saturday evening.

Despite missing Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee), Jrue Holiday (knee) and Khris Middleton (rest), the Bucks were able to get the job done in Charlotte. The game got out to a competitive start as the Bucks led 30-24 after one quarter. They kept the upper hand through the second and pushed to an 11-point lead by halftime. The Hornets came out stronger in the third but the Bucks kept pace and maintained their 11-point cushion heading into the final frame. The Hornets put up a valiant effort in the fourth, but they could hardly make a dent in the deficit and fell short for the home loss.

Bobby Portis led the Bucks with 20 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, in 31 minutes. Jordan Nwora followed up with 17 points, four rebounds and a steal, while Brook Lopez and Jevon Carter tallied 14 points each. The Bucks shot 46 percent from the field, including 12-of-32 from long range,

Meanwhile, Terry Rozier led the way for the Hornets, with 26 points, five rebounds and four assists, in 36 minutes. Jalen McDaniels followed up with 21 points, five rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block, while Kelly Oubre added 20 points, two rebounds and two steals. The Hornets shot 39 percent from the field, including 5-of-24 from deep.

The Hornets (7-16) will look to bounce back as they play host to the Clippers on Monday. The Bucks (16-6) take on the Magic in Orlando on Monday.