The Bucks make their first and only trip to Memphis tonight as they take on the Grizzlies. They will be looking to build on Monday’s win during Jason Kidd’s return to action.
Milwaukee showed strong resilience in its victory over Orlando on Tuesday night. At one point, they were down by 16 points and struggling mightily to both hit and defend a shot. However, they banded together and overcame the deficit, winning by seven, 107-100.
However, one cause for concern was the Bucks’ lack of coverage along the three-point line. It seemed as if every other possession resulted in Orlando sinking a three. By the end of the night, the Magic attempted 24 threes and converted on 13 of them. Jason Kidd responded to media postgame by saying there wasn’t enough of a concerned effort being made on the perimeter.
The Bucks continue to elicit damage down low in the post. They outscored Orlando 62-26 in the paint and had numerous flashy dunks from Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jabari Parker. Not to be out done, but tonight’s foe also possesses a love for the paint. In Monday’s defeat over Orlando, Memphis put up 70 points. Perhaps Orlando is a team that has struggles defending the paint, but nonetheless, it’s something to be aware of.
Marc Gasol continues to be the workhorse for the Memphis offense. Over the past five games, the standout center in the Western Conference is averaging 22.8 points per game.
Milwaukee will need to keep an eye on Jeff Green as well, as he put up a season-high 30 points. He will need to be eliminated in as many categories as possible. The same applies to Tony Allen, who will most likely guard Antetokounmpo or Middleton. He will most likely be switching throughout the game, but whoever he will be on, it will be an intriguing matchup.
The Bucks have lost four straight in Memphis. This game will be huge for their season if they will be able to scrape a victory out. Milwaukee is only 3-13 on the road this season, but a win in Memphis would say a lot about the resilience and courage of this team as they attempt to climb back up the playoff ladder.