Jennings says Bucks lack passion

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Bucks Point Guard Brandon Jennings didn't mince words following the Bucks 92-89 loss to lowly New Orleans Wednesday night in the Bradley Center.  He said the team lacked passion and had to regain it.  Milwaukee's 17th setback in 29 games-and fifth straight on the home court was the worst.

For three quarters, the only one who brought any energy was Ersan Ilyasova. He scored a season-high 23 points, 14 over his average and two off his career high.  By the time the Bucks started to wake up and get serious (this after some boos from their fans), they were down by 13 points.

Scott Skiles squad got to within one, thanks to a 12-0 fourth quarter run, but the hole proved too deep to dig out of against the pesky Hornets -- the league's second worst team.

Milwaukee's dropped three straight games and six of eight. The eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference is fading from sight.