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Steve Jones Jr.

8 Jul, 9 tweets, 3 min read

One thing I noticed re-watching Game 1 is the Bucks didn't get clean switches on Deandre Ayton from the jump. In Game 6 vs. Atlanta they had PJ Tucker guard Trae Young to take away ATL's ability to post up. Same concept in G1 w/ PJ guarding CP3 but execution was different.

Ayton did a good job of making sure whether he screened or slipped he had the inside path and Tucker ended up on top. First time he draws a foul. Second time help has to come. Third time Tucker finally gets a good switch, Ayton seals and finishes. That was important.

Milwaukee can tighten a lot of things up defensively but the under current is the fact that Phoenix will put pressure on what you think you can live with and find a way to make you feel like you can't. Bucks have to be willing to live in that discomfort defensively.

The other thing I noticed was the help/attention that Phoenix showed vs. Middleton/Jrue. Both of these plays have them coming off screens from Giannis in the middle of the floor. Both of these plays have the Suns showing elbow help to protect/take away space.

The Mikal Bridges vs. Khris Middleton battle is the one to watch for me. Bridges has the ability to push catches out and the length to contest those shots. The Bucks need Middleton to not just make the defense pay but to make the Suns at some point think about single coverage

Jrue Holiday comes off the screen from Lopez and again watch the Suns lock in. CP3 with a stunt from the corner which allows Ayton to stay in the drop and takes away space. Swing and the Portis/Middleton DHO is a switch. Bridges battles in the post.

It's subtle things from the Suns. Bucks did a great job defending Elbow action vs. Atlanta. Not the same here. CP3 with a brush screen. Crowder never moves so the only switch is Brook taking Booker as he comes off. Ayton again gets the roll, corner is empty, no late help.

It's not like the Bucks can't do it. Switch the pick and roll here. Jrue battles as Booker comes off. Tucker switches back on to Payne. Everything stays in front, end with a contested jumper.

Bucks have Giannis at the 5, switch everything here. Tucker does a good job of kicking Middleton out of the matchup vs. Ayton. Question becomes how many of these looks can you live with if you're the Bucks?

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Steve Jones Jr.

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