Bucks Zone

"They probably weren't prepared for this kind of plummet" - Report says on the Milwaukee Bucks' defensive regression

The Milwaukee Bucks' defensive regression has caught everyone off guard.
Jonas Panerio|
© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

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Milwaukee Bucks

On the surface, the Milwaukee Bucks are having another solid season. With Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard putting up huge numbers, the Bucks own a 25-12 record, which is good for second-best in the Eastern Conference.

However, the start of 2024 has not been good for the team, as they have lost four of their first five games. Worse, their defensive struggles - evident early this season - have become a major problem. In this five-game stretch capped by a 132-116 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, they allowed an average of 125 points per game and have often trailed by double-figures.

Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley reported that in trading for an offensive-minded guard like Lillard, the Bucks knew their defense would suffer. But with the recent losses, it's clear that their defensive issues need to be addressed if they want to have a shot at winning the championship.

Difficulty playing defense

The Bucks’ starting backcourt consists of Lillard and Malik Beasley - none is known for their defensive prowess. This has proven to be a contributing factor to their ongoing struggles this season in preventing opposing players from finding open looks from beyond the three-point line or penetrating the basket. 

This season, the Bucks rank 21st in defensive rating and 24th in opponent’s points per game.

“The Bucks surely anticipated some defensive regression upon switching out Jrue Holiday for Lillard, but they probably weren't prepared for this kind of plummet,” Buckley wrote.

Trade troubles

Ideally, the trade deadline presents a chance for the Bucks to swap out some underperforming players for more defensive-minded pieces. However, with a lack of attractive trade assets, this may be a difficult task.

“The Bucks can and should kick the tires on all perimeter defenders, but their depleted asset collection could put a huge hindrance on those plans. Subtracting a rotation regular like Bobby Portis might create one hole while attempting to fill another,” Buckley explained.

Damian Lillard and Cam Payne are expected to be back for the game vs. the Boston Celtics

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Jonas Panerio
JONAS PANERIO