Second key to victory when visiting Memphis Grizzlies — Milwaukee Bucks must perfect fast break defense
While limiting turnovers will be a key factor for Milwaukee in this matchup, they are bound to happen at some point. When they inevitably do, the Bucks must get back on defense.
With Memphis notching the highest average of steals among any team in the league, they get a hefty portion of fast break opportunities per game. They are taking advantage, converting on them at a prolific rate as they total 16 fast break points per game. That is the second-most in the association behind only the Philadelphia 76ers, and it is clear to see where their success stems from.
Per NBA.com/stats, the Grizzlies have five players that rank within the top 50 in fast break points per game, showing their individual dominance in that facet of the game. Ja Morant, Dillon Brooks, and several other members of this young core love to get out running in the open court, and the Bucks must slow them down when the opportunity presents itself. Thankfully, they are well-equipped to keep the Grizzlies in check.
Milwaukee’s fast break defense is ranked the first best in the league by allowing their opponents to score a mere 9.3 points on the break this season. They have been even better recently, giving up an average of just seven points on the break throughout their last three games.
Keeping consistent with that trend will be crucial against these Grizzlies, or else things could get out of hand fast.