Milwaukee Bucks: Thon Maker’s Defense Set The Tone In Game 1

The Long Arms of the Law

Although so much of what Maker did in defending the rim didn’t necessarily involve him blocking shots, there were still a couple of exclamation swats that helped to further energize the rookie and his team.

I’d be surprised if poor DeRozan was able to sleep after the game without feeling the force of Maker’s gigantic hands brushing by his ears, as on top of the various strong contests, the rookie stopped him with a textbook rejection in the third.

If there was one play in the game that could be pinpointed as starting to swing of all momentum and belief in Milwaukee’s favor, that might be the one. Maker’s block led to a fastbreak and-one that was sealed by Antetokounmpo down the other end. Having made the key defensive play, nobody enjoyed the resulting score as much as Maker either.

DeRozan wasn’t Maker’s only victim, either. Earlier in that third quarter, Lowry had similarly turned the corner to drive toward the rim, but this time the shot did end up pinned to the glass.

Even later in the game with the result sealed, Maker had one more. Norman Powell drove right through the middle only to meet his Maker. Thon didn’t have to over-exert himself, instead showing good verticality and virtually just finding the ball in his hands as a result.

In limited minutes, Maker turned Toronto’s offense on its head. The Raptors can certainly make adjustments, such as playing Ibaka at center more often or playing to Valanciunas’ more obvious strengths, but if they don’t there remains room for the Bucks to use the rookie big man to even greater effect.

Next: Win In 6 Podcast #112: Bucks Leave Game 1 In Jurassic Park More Alive Than Ever

In a series where the Bucks need meaningful contributions from a host of role players, Thon Maker shaped the outcome of Game 1. The only question now is whether he can keep it up.