The Bucks had 5 players scoring 19 points or higher this game. Not one player completely dominated the offensive share load. Malik Beasley, Damian Lillard, Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bobby Portis all were key in this win over an offensive team in the Knicks.
The Knicks kept the game within ten points most of the game with the help of their leader, Jalen Brunson, who finished the game with 36 points. Every possession, Brunson was either hitting a step back jumper or dishing for an assist. Julius Randle had a quality scoring night as well, even though he had his hands full being matched up with Giannis. Randle finished the game with 26 points and missed both of his attempts from deep.
R.J. Barrett who has had a very shaky start to the season for the Knicks struggled early this game, being guarded by Middleton. He did hit some shots late but it was too little too late for the Kinks as they were already down 15 points at that point of the game.
The Chemistry Between the Bucks Big 3 is Building
Today showed just how much chemistry Giannis, Lillard, and Middleton are gaining. The more they play together, the better this team becomes. When the addition of Portis, Beasley, and Brook Lopez get added to the equation, there is really nothing the Bucks cannot do.
On a fastbreak, Middleton will get the ball from the big and launch it down court to a sprinting Giannis, who takes two steps from half court until he gets to the rim. He is one of if not the most difficult player to stop when he has a full head of steam coming at the rim.
The team has as much defense as they do offense. Nearly every player on the roster plays above average defense. Giannis, Lopez, and Middleton play defense in the top percentile which adds to the juggernaut that the Bucks have become.
Bucks’ Brook Lopez has Transitioned his Game in Recent Years
Lopez may not always fill the stat sheet, but his defensive presence is enough to make the opposing offense think twice about driving to the paint. Lopez was once one of the top post scorers in the league. His rookie season, he was being double teamed because of how dominant he was in the post.
He has transitioned his game to being an absolute sniper from beyond the arch as well as one of the best shot blockers in the NBA. On offense, Lopez sits at the top of the key and awaits a catch-and-shoot opportunity which is usually there as his defender has to crash the glass to help defend Giannis, giving Lopez a clean look.
