Unleashing the Greek Freak
I’ve already written extensively about Antetokounmpo, and what the Bucks need from him in Game 2, but there is another element of Giannis’ game that needs to be set free by the coaching staff for the remainder of the series.
Somewhat uncharacteristically when compared to Milwaukee’s approach on defense throughout the season, Antetokounmpo often simply mirrored Brook Lopez’s role in dropping way back while guarding the pick-and-roll in Game 1.
That tactic has been a staple for Milwaukee’s veteran center in anchoring the league’s best defense over the course of the regular season, but it was never Antetokounmpo’s role alongside him. On Sunday, Antetokounmpo taking on that same role limited his opportunity to cause his usual havoc defensively, and also illustrated that without the practice Lopez has had in the role, he’s not exactly well-prepared to perform it either.
Instead, heading into Game 2, Antetokounmpo has to be empowered to make his own decisions on the defensive end. His approach to defense and how it spurs on his team has often been compared to the function of a free safety, and a player taking on that kind of role against Boston may well be key to Milwaukee’s chances of stifling the Celtics.
The Bucks want to give up mid-range looks and even against the Celtics, who excel in that department, it’s not necessarily the worst idea. But baiting exceptional mid-range shooters such as Al Horford and Kyrie Irving into those looks means applying pressure in terms of contests is essential.
Kyrie hit a 3 with like 5:20 left in the game on a Kyrie/Horford PNR when Giannis was on Horford. And Giannis was further back then even Lopez had been. I don't get the point of putting Giannis on Horford if you are just going to defend the same style. He's Giannis! Use that! https://t.co/SbzgvJGzs4
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) April 29, 2019
Antetokounmpo has the size, length and quickness that allows him to close space quickly enough where the Bucks can invite a generally inefficient shot, but know that they can still apply pressure to a team who can make it look startlingly efficient if left unchecked.
All in all, the Bucks aren’t going to scrap the core principles that made them so successful on both ends of the floor throughout the season, but there’s certainly room for minor tweaks that could shift the series’ momentum in Milwaukee’s favor.