Chicago Bulls: 3 keys to stopping Bucks ahead of Friday night's matchup

Chicago Bulls: 3 keys to stopping Bucks ahead of Friday night’s matchup

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - JANUARY 21: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks is defended by Troy Brown Jr. #7 of the Chicago Bulls during the second half of a game at Fiserv Forum on January 21, 2022 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

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Giannis Antetokounmpo Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Attack Giannis on Defense

Defending Antetokounmpo one-on-one is practically a non starter. The best way to limit his impact is to eliminate him being on the court.

As great as the Greek Freak is on defense, he has a history of foul trouble. Most notably, he has fouled out of crucial playoff games that became the Bucks undoing prior to their 2021 championship run.

As a shot blocker, Antetokounmpo jumps and swats at everything — especially in the open court. The Bulls guards will have to attack Antetokounmpo on fast break opportunities, going into his chest and absorbing the contact.

Bucks head coach Mike Budenholzer tried to remedy that trend by removing Antetokounmpo as one of their defensive stoppers. He moved the Greek Freak onto their opponent’s weaker offensive threats.

By doing so, Antetokounmpo has been able to quarterback the Bucks defense, getting highlight reel weak side blocks in crunch time.

To combat this, Chicago will need to run pick and roll with DeRozan and whoever Antetokounmpo is guarding. In those moments, Antetokounmpo overplays in the switch — allowing a drive by with the hope of blocking from behind. He also drops back, giving the guard space to shoot.

DeRozan will feast in either option, possibly drawing an and-one.

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