Third key – Milwaukee Bucks capitalize on easy scoring chances
While much has changed for the Bucks, their priority to getting out and running still remains.
It’s early, but the Bucks are running more in transition than they ever have before as they have the highest frequency of transition possessions this season. While they’re averaging 16.1 fast break points per game, the Bucks’ efficiency while in transition could stand to improve as they’ve slid down to 1.11 points per transition play.
Not only are the Lakers the best defense in the NBA by defensive efficiency, but they’re one of the best teams in limiting opposing teams in transition. The Lakers have surrendered just 1.03 points per transition possession to their opponents, the fourth-best mark in the league.
That should be of concern to a Bucks team that, while the best offensive team in the league, is prone to stalling out when prevented easy scoring chances on the break. Just last time out, Milwaukee scored eight fast break points against a Nets team that is far from a defensive juggernaut, especially after shaking up their roster in the James Harden trade.
Of course, it will be Antetokounmpo that will be the bellwether to how successful the Bucks will be in capitalizing on the transition looks that are sure to come against the Lakers. From there, it will come down to his and the Bucks’ overall execution.
The Bucks’ massive tilt with the Los Angeles Lakers will tip off at 6:30 p.m. central time and you can catch the action on TNT where it will be nationally broadcasted.