Atlanta, Georgia - Giannis Antetokounmpo was back for the Bucks after missing six games, to lead his team to their third-straight win, on Thursday night.

The Bucks have been both hot and cold as of late, going on a string of three-game winning and losing streaks over the last 12 games. They stuck to their winning ways thanks to a welcome return by the NBA's reigning MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo (26).

Milwaukee had won their last two games without Giannis before Thursday, but having a player of his caliber on the court is always going to make a difference. The Bucks were going to need all hands on deck when they faced the Hawks, leaders of the Southeast Division. The game was hard-fought, but the Bucks held on for the 120-109 win on the Hawks home court.

With seven players in total for Milwaukee scored in double-figures, Giannis made sure he contributed with 15 points and five rebounds, in 25 minutes of game time. Jrue Holiday led the Bucks with 23 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Brook Lopez also contributed with 19 points and 12 rebounds.

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For Atlanta, Bogdan Bogdanovic led for the Hawks with a game-high 28 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. Trae Young seemed to have an off night, shooting three for 17 from the field netting him only 15 points. Solomon Hill was also able to pitch in with 18 points and five rebounds.

On Saturday, the Bucks head home to play the Grizzlies, and the Hawks play the Pacers on Sunday afternoon.

The Phoenix Suns stay hot and win their fourth straight game, beating the Kings 122-114.

And it's nine-straight games scoring at least 30 points for Steph Curry, as the Warriors beat the Cavs 119-101.

That's five in a row now for Boston, as Jaylen Brown's 40-point night helps the Celtics beat the depleted Lakers 121-113.

On Friday, the Jazz try to keep the league's best record as they go up against the Pacers, while the Heat try to get hot again against the Timberwolves.