A few days ago, the Bucks posted a record of 5 victories for 2 defeats and could congratulate themselves, despite problems, particularly defensive, which were clearly visible, in cushioning the shock.
Two defeats against the Pacers and the Magic later, and it’s the return of the grimace soup in Milwaukee.
“Our camaraderie and chemistry are not on point at all”, plague Bobby Portis. “It’s obvious on the ground. This is going to take a little time. We don’t want this to take too long, but we’ll hopefully find a solution soon. We just try to understand each other. »
To their credit, the Bucks had to do without Damian Lillard during their last two outings. But that doesn’t explain the defensive problems, with Milwaukee still only having the 25th defense…
A defense too open for opponents
“We are trying to implement the new things that the coach wants and focus on them, which takes us a little away from the way we used to play” continues Bobby Portis. “We’re trying to figure it out and put it together, trusting what he wants and doing what he asks of us. »
With new defensive schemes not yet mastered but also simply fewer defenders (Damian Lillard, Malik Beasley, Cam Payne, etc.) on the back lines as well as a slow-moving Khris Middleton, the Bucks are unable to slow down their opponents. Despite a Giannis Antetokounmpo who multiplies in attack.
“Individual pride is there”assures the “Greek Freak”. “But the collective defense is not there. We don’t help each other as much as we should. The intervals are so… I feel like the intervals are wide open. Opponents are too comfortable dribbling, attacking, getting downhill, finding an angle and creating something for themselves or their teammates. I would like someone to defend us that way. »
The double MVP assures that he must, however, set an example, especially without Damian Lillard.
“That’s not who we are. It’s not the Milwaukee Bucks…And it starts with me. It starts with the team leader. I have to be better. But again, no one can do it alone. Defensively, we need to do more. Let there be more people in painting. Let there be more people in the (penetration) corridors. Not allowing opponents to be comfortable and able to attack.”
