Milwaukee Bucks Game Preview: Nov. 10 at San Antonio Spurs
By Adam McGee
Major key for Milwaukee – Cut down on fouls
The Milwaukee Bucks have been getting crushed in terms of free throw differential so far this season, and in recent games that issue has swelled up to be a regular talking point from Jason Kidd and his players following games.
Unfortunately, if the Bucks want any chance of a more even share of free throws on Friday in San Antonio, they’ll have to do a lot more than look to the refs with open hands
The Spurs give up the least personal fouls per game in the entire NBA (17.3) and rank fifth best in terms of limiting opponent free throw attempts (20.1).
Although the Spurs’ 21.7 free throw attempts per game is only average in the wider context of the NBA, recent opponents haven’t needed to be exceptional in that department as the Bucks have been gifting them opportunities.
The Spurs don’t possess the kind of physically imposing big men that the Bucks’ have faced for much of the last week, but equally, skilled centers will provide just as much need for Thon Maker, John Henson and Giannis Antetokounmpo to keep their composure.
Milwaukee’s frontcourt depth doesn’t leave any wiggle room following Greg Monroe‘s departure, and Maker and Henson need to defend responsibly so that Antetokounmpo isn’t forced into playing a position that could accentuate his own foul issues.