Milwaukee Bucks: 3 takeaways from frustrating loss to San Antonio Spurs

The Milwaukee Bucks miss their big men after being dominated in the paint by the San Antonio Spurs

The Bucks have been hit with numerous injuries lately, notably to their centers. Brook Lopez and Bobby Portis have both missed significant time to start the season, and with both players missing the game against the Spurs, the opposing team took advantage.

San Antonio punished Milwaukee in the paint by outscoring them 60-44 in the contest. Without the towering Lopez down low to protect the rim, the Spurs practically got whatever they wanted whenever they took it inside. Portis is not known for his defensive excellence, but still, he provides another big body to throw into the lane to challenge opponents inside. Giannis Antetokounmpo is the biggest body that the Bucks had at their disposal, and while he is certainly a formidable threat down low, it is evident that this team is missing both Lopez and Portis.

This predicament will continue to linger for the Bucks as long as these injuries are still there. Portis is likely to return to the lineup for tonight’s matchup with the Jazz as he was held out of the Spurs matchup due to competition reconditioning. On the other hand, there is no timetable for Lopez as he deals with a back issue. The Bucks will have their hands full dealing with a top-tier center in Rudy Gobert tonight, but having Portis back should help them to some extent.

As long as the former All-Defensive honoree in Lopez is not there, teams will look to attack the Bucks at the rim. With these injuries hindering their success early on, the team should perhaps take a look at adding another serviceable big man to the roster, but that is just a thought.