Brook Lopez was expected to be a key player for the Milwaukee Bucks in their first-round series against the Miami Heat, given his impressive performance in the 2021 NBA Playoffs. However, in Game 1, Lopez struggled on the offensive end, scoring just 10 points, and was torn apart by Bam Adebayo on defense. The Bucks will need to make adjustments and get Lopez more involved if they want to win Game 2 and potentially the rest of the series.
Offensive Adjustments
Lopez needs to be more involved on the offensive end, especially if Giannis Antetokounmpo is not on the floor. The Bucks should use more of « Brooklyn Brook, » referring to when the center attacks the basket rather than camping out on the 3-point line. The Heat do not have much size aside from Adebayo, so the Bucks need to get more looks inside, and Lopez could be the driving force. If Antetokounmpo is out, Lopez attacking the hoop has to be a point of emphasis. In Game 4 of the 2021 Eastern Conference Finals, when Antetokounmpo got hurt and had to miss Games 5 and 6, Lopez scored a game-high 33 points on 14-of-16 shooting from 2-point range.
Defensive Adjustments
The Bucks may have to rethink their strategy of letting Adebayo take every open jump shot. In 2021, it worked incredibly well as Lopez essentially took the big man out of that series in its entirety. However, Adebayo is a better player now. If Lopez dares him to take those shots, he is going to, and he’s more than capable of making them. That means Lopez must tighten up on that end and make things more difficult for Adebayo. It’s easier said than done, but it must be done.
Conclusion
Game 2 is a crucial one for the Bucks, and Lopez will be a significant X-factor moving forward. Whether Giannis is on the floor or not, the Bucks need to emphasize getting Lopez more involved on both ends of the court. Defensively, they need to make adjustments to contain Adebayo. With or without Antetokounmpo, the Bucks need to defend their home court and get their first win of the 2023 NBA Playoffs.
Keywords: Brook Lopez, Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat, NBA Playoffs, Giannis Antetokounmpo, offensive adjustments, defensive adjustments, Bam Adebayo.
