Camille Davis and Justin Garcia here, the hosts of the daily Locked On Bucks podcast, with your daily Locked On Bucks newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Bucks and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Unforgettable Night
Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) celebrates following the game against the Detroit Pistons at Fiserv Forum.|Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
The Milwaukee Bucks delivered a thrilling performance, overcoming an 18-point deficit to secure a victory in overtime against the Detroit Pistons. Giannis Antetokounmpo was the undeniable star of the night, putting on a show that fans will remember for years. Scoring 59 points, Giannis not only set a season-high for the NBA but also carried the Bucks on his back with 14 rebounds, seven assists, two steals, and three blocks. It was one of those special performances that make you appreciate the privilege of watching such talent.
A Game-Changing Third Quarter
The game seemed bleak at halftime, with the Bucks trailing and struggling to find their rhythm. However, the third quarter marked a turning point. The Bucks responded with a 38-24 quarter, fueled by Giannis’s relentless drive and the team’s collective effort. The energy shifted, and shots began to fall, setting the stage for a dramatic comeback. The pivotal moment came when Ron Holland missed two crucial free throws at the end of regulation, sending the game into overtime. As the saying goes, “ball don’t lie,” and the Bucks seized the opportunity to turn the tide.
In overtime, Giannis continued his dominance, sealing the game with a powerful dunk. Watching Giannis play with such intensity and skill is a reminder of why we love this game.
Brook Lopez Steps Up
While Giannis was the headline, Brook Lopez’s contribution cannot be overlooked. Lopez delivered a stellar performance with 29 points, five three-pointers, eight rebounds, three steals, and five blocks. His defensive prowess was on full display, particularly with a crucial block on a Cade Cunningham dunk attempt in the fourth quarter. Lopez’s ability to step up in the absence of key players like Damian Lillard and Khris Middleton was vital for the Bucks.
The Bucks needed someone to support Giannis, and Lopez answered the call. His performance on both ends of the court was a testament to his importance to the team. Despite a slow start to the season, Lopez showed why he remains a crucial piece of the Bucks’ puzzle.
The Bucks demonstrated resilience and character, qualities that will be essential as the season progresses. With Giannis leading the charge and players like Lopez stepping up, the Bucks are poised to build on this momentum.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Giannis’s incredible performance and the Bucks’ thrilling victory, tune into the Locked On Bucks podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Bucks Podcast:
Analysis of the Bucks’ third-quarter turnaround
The impact of Ron Holland’s missed free throws
Brook Lopez’s defensive highlights and offensive resurgence
The significance of Giannis’s 59-point game in Bucks history
Upcoming challenges and opportunities for the Bucks
Traditionally, press defenses are a weapon of last resort in the NBA, fit only for highly specific scenarios or times of desperation. Professional basketball players simply are too good at passing and dribbling to be susceptible to large doses of full-court press — or so the thinking went. But the thinking, it is a-changin’.
Synergy’s database goes back to the 2008-2009 season, and before last year, only one team had used press on even 5% of their defensive possessions: the 2020-21 Charlotte Hornets.
Last year, however, we saw a notable rise in the press defense, thanks to two teams. The Portland Trail Blazers and Indiana Pacers both beat Charlotte’s mark. Portland led the league by pressing 7.2% of the time, yielding only .94 points per possession (well below their typical defensive rating of 1.04, although that’s not by any means an apples-to-apples comparison), and I predicted that this year, the Blazers — featuring heavy doses of ambulatory fly paper Toumani Camara — would crack 10%.
I had the right idea but the wrong team. Instead, the Pacers are currently pressing 11.9% of the time, followed closely by Brooklyn’s 11.5% (the Blazers come in third, with a still historically high 8.4%). In retrospect, Indiana’s surging interest in the press shouldn’t be a huge surprise — they picked up full-court on nearly a quarter of their possessions in last year’s playoffs. That’s insane!
They haven’t been quite that extreme this year, but look at this graph of every team’s percentage of defensive possessions in press defense:
Six teams in total are pressing more than 5% of the time. 22 of the league’s 30 teams are pressing more this year than last (with the caveat that we’re talking about a couple dozen possessions or fewer for many of these teams), and this is by far the most press we’ve seen since the data became available. Given the weaknesses we mentioned in the opening paragraph, why is the press gaining popularity?
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Fans Connecting communities. The Bucks unveiled their City Edition jerseys for this season. (NBA.com)
Rumor Speculation is swirling around potential trade targets and roster moves for the Bucks as the season progresses. Stay tuned for any updates on these developments. (Behind the Buck Pass)
Analysis Sam Vecenie of the Athletic breaks down how this year’s rookies have started. I don’t agree with all of his picks, but he’s always thoughtful with his selections and insightful with his analysis. (NY Times, Subscription required)
Personnel HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto goes behind the scenes with the Indiana Pacers’ coaching staff. Mostly, you get a better appreciation for how little coaches sleep!
Must Read Jared Dubin investigates the rise in dunks over time for his newsletter “Last Night, In Basketball.” It’s a fun, breezy read! (Last Night, Subscription required)
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Wednesday’s Notable Fantasy Basketball Performances
Nov 13, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker (9) shoots the ball against Portland Trail Blazers center Donovan Clingan (23) during the first half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-Imagn Images|Photo By Soobum Im/Soobum Im-Imagn Images
In the ever-evolving world of fantasy basketball, keeping an eye on emerging talents and consistent performers is key to maintaining a competitive edge. Let’s delve into the standout performances of three young guns, as well as the continued dominance of Giannis, and explore their potential impact on your fantasy lineup.
Donovan Clingan: A Rising Star?
Donovan Clingan’s recent performance has caught the attention of fantasy managers everywhere. With 31 minutes on the court, Clingan delivered an impressive stat line of 17 points, 12 rebounds, and a staggering eight blocks. His ability to dominate the paint and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Deandre Ayton’s injury status. While Clingan’s long-term role remains uncertain, his current form makes him a must-add in fantasy leagues, particularly for those in need of blocks and rebounds.
Jared McCain: Rookie on the Rise
Jared McCain has quickly become a hot topic in fantasy circles, thanks to his explosive performance in the absence of key players like Paul George and Joel Embiid. McCain’s 34-point game, complete with six three-pointers and 10 assists, showcases his potential as a high-usage player. While his current role is bolstered by injuries to teammates, McCain’s talent is undeniable. Fantasy managers should consider adding him to their rosters, but remain cautious about his long-term value once the team’s stars return.
Click the button below to see how Giannis continues to be a fantasy force, and why for Victor Wembanyama, the future is now.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Bucks podcasts.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 41 points propel Milwaukee Bucks to victory over the Chicago Bulls The Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Chicago Bulls with a dominant performance led by Giannis Antetokounmpo, who scored an impressive 41 points, including a staggering 25 in the third quarter alone. Hosts Camille Davis and Frank Madden also discuss Khris Middleton’s anticipated return, as he remains medically cleared but not yet ready to play.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Defense Shines Amidst Offensive Struggles The Milwaukee Bucks have transformed their defense into a powerhouse, ranking 6th in the NBA since November 1st with a 110.6 defensive rating. Yet, their offense lags, sitting at 19th due to injuries and shooting slumps.
Brook Lopez shines as the Milwaukee Bucks find a way to beat the Houston Rockets | Bucks win 101-100 Brook Lopez delivered a standout performance, leading the Milwaukee Bucks to a win over the Houston Rockets with 27 points, 10 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 3 steals. Tune in to uncover the game-changing moments and strategic decisions that defined this thrilling matchup.
