While there have been some questions about the Bucks’ offense, the defense has been elite this year. Giannis Antetokounmpo is a big reason for this but it is a team effort. There is one player that has been especially exceptional on defense this season. In a recent interview, Giannis called Brook Lopez the “Defensive Player of the Year”.
I asked Giannis Antetokounmpo what Brook Lopez has meant to the Bucks.
Giannis: “In my opinion, and probably Jrue’s, Defensive Player of the Year.”
Jrue Holiday: “100 percent.”
Giannis: “No doubt. He’s 34 years old. It’s insane how he’s playing right now.”
Full video below. pic.twitter.com/9LiI8FY9l2
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) January 10, 2023
Giannis Calls Brook Lopez DPOY
No one saw this season coming from Lopez. Because of his age and injury history, many thought he would be a nice role player but this season he has been elite. He is averaging an absurd 2.6 blocks per game and there is no telling how many other shots he is altering. Any time there is an elite shot blocker in the paint, it changes how a team plays. They know what might happen if they drive to the basket. It also allows the Bucks to play more aggressive perimeter defense as they know Lopez is waiting for anyone who gets by.
Defensive Player Of The Year?
If Lopez keeps playing like this, it is hard to see him not getting the award. While there are some great defenders in this league, Lopez is having a stand-out season. Giannis isn’t the only one noticing. Jrue Holiday agreed that Lopez should be getting the honors for DPOY. This is high praise from two elite defenders are their position. The good news as well is that offensively, Lopez is having a good year. He isn’t a liability on the offensive end as he is averaging just over 14 points per game and hitting 38% of his three-pointers.
The Bucks will need Lopez to keep playing at this level if they are going to win a championship. The offense will hopefully fix itself as more players are added back in. If the Bucks can pair their elite defense with a decent offense, they will find themselves in the mix for another NBA championship.
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