Dealing with multiple threats
Even without Westbrook, the Thunder will act as the toughest test for the Bucks so far as they’ll match up with lineups that are well-equipped to test Milwaukee in a variety of important areas.
In what would seem like ideal preparation for the Bucks, against Oklahoma City, they’ll have key battles to win at point guard, on the wing, and at center, if they’re to come away with a win and a positive performance.
At guard, that will start with Dennis Schröder, a player Budenholzer knows all too well. The German certainly has his flaws, yet he can be relied upon to bring an aggressive, attack-first mindset to proceedings every night, meaning the Bucks will have to be mindful of his speed and ability to penetrate, along with the passing and scoring opportunities that are created as a result.
On the wing, Khris Middleton and Antetokounmpo will likely split their time guarding Paul George, as the Bucks get their first taste in preseason of an elite wing who can be a deadly scorer both off-the-ball or in one-on-one situations.
Last but certainly not least, the Bucks will have to find an answer for Steven Adams. Adams may well be the league’s best offensive rebounder, along with being a box-out expert on the other end, meaning he’ll provide a stern test for Brook Lopez and Co. on the glass, in an area where the Bucks have already produced mixed results in the preseason.