Chicago Bulls vs Milwaukee Bucks: Position-By-Position Preview For The Playoffs
By Fuad Ahad
Center: Pau Gasol vs Zaza Pachulia
Nov 5, 2014; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Pau Gasol (16) during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. The Bulls won 95-86. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
In four games against Milwaukee this season, Gasol has averaged 24.25 points, 13.25 rebounds, 54.7% shooting from the field, and 27-35 (77%) from the free throw line. This includes a game where he had a career-high 46 points with 18 rebounds, three assists, three blocks, 17-30 from the field, and 12-13 on free throws. I think it’s safe to say the Bucks cannot guard him.
Kidd may go to a smaller, quicker lineup with John Henson trying to guard Gasol, but Pachulia will likely be the starter against Gasol throughout the series.
Zaza is a skilled player, but he doesn’t possess any qualities that would give him an advantage over Gasol. Pau’s biggest downfall is that he is very slow but Pachulia may be even slower. Gasol is better than Pachulia in all facets of the game, plain and simple.
If the Bulls go to him on every possession, which they probably will, Gasol should dominate this series in every way.
Advantage: Pau Gasol
Next: Bench vs. Bench