Without any doubt, the Milwaukee Bucks’ defense has been a huge issue this season. In reality, this issue played an important role in the team’s decision to remove rookie coach Adrian Griffin.
The Bucks will now put their defense to the test against the Denver Nuggets, one of the NBA’s top offenses. Milwaukee will face a significant challenge in slowing down two-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic and the rest of the defending champions.
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for a jumper around Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) during the fourth quarter at the BMO Harris Bradley Center. On February 15, 2018, at BMO Harris Bradley Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) drives for a shot around Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15). Mandatory credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports (NBA). Mandatory credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports (NBA News)
Coincidentally, Nuggets head coach Michael Malone recently unleashed a scathing truth bomb on the league’s current defense. Malone’s statement coincides with their Monday night game against the Bucks, who now boast one of the league’s most porous defenses.
“There is no defense in the NBA right now,” Malone remarked, according to Rachel Strand of ClutchPoints. “You may be in the top ten in defensive efficiency right now, but three years ago you were in the bottom ten. Guys are becoming increasingly difficult to guard. Guys are exceptionally competent. Players like Joel [Embiid], Luka [Doncic], and Devin Booker. It’s just difficult to guard guys one-on-one anymore. You must also acknowledge the individual’s contributions. Joel’s scoring performance this season, for example, is nearly unheard of.”
As Malone stated, Joel Embiid has not been the only offensive standout this season. In fact, the reigning MVP’s mind-blowing 70-point game earlier this week was surpassed by Luka Doncic’s 73-point performance a few days later. The fact that Devin Booker and Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 62 points in the same week adds to Malone’s strong message.
Nikola Jokic is also a capable player. While the 6-foot-11 big man may not be as explosive as Embiid or Doncic in terms of scoring, there is no disputing that he is one of the best offensive threats this game has ever seen.
Needless to say, the Bucks will be busy on Monday night.
