Milwaukee Bucks: 4 Things To Look For This Season

3. Defense Is Key For The Young Bucks

In the 2014-15 season the Bucks had the second-best defensive efficiency in the NBA. Despite being 25th in offensive efficiency that season, the defense helped propel the team to the playoffs. Last season, however, the defense slipped to 22nd in efficiency.

Part of the reasoning for the slip could be the addition of Greg Monroe at center. Monroe has never been a strong defender throughout his career and lacks the athleticism to be a rim protector.

The problem with Monroe becomes amplified when you put him next to Parker, who has not yet learned how to play defense in the NBA. The interior tandem routinely left the Bucks at a disadvantage, as teams were often able to get to the rim at will.

The reality is that it’s tough to have a great defense when you are as offensively poor as the Bucks have been the last few years. Teams are able to get transition opportunities after stops and players typically aren’t as engaged defensively when the offense struggles.

Antetokounmpo, Middleton and Dellavedova should provide the team with a good first line of defense on the perimeter. If Parker and Monroe don’t find a way to improve defensively, Jason Kidd may need to experiment with lineup changes to help bolster the defense.

Starting John Henson at center may be a solid solution, especially if the team finally finds a trade partner for Monroe.

Regardless of what direction the Bucks take, having a strong defensive identity will be key for them should they want to make the playoffs.

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