After Failing in the First Game, Can Giannis Antetokounmpo Stop Jimmy Butler in Game 2?

The Miami Heat pulled off an upset win against the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 1. One of the main reasons for their win was a poor showing by Bucks star player Giannis Antetokounmpo. After averaging 30 points in the series against the Magic, he only put up 18 points while taking just 12 shots all game.

On the other hand, Jimmy Butler lit up the show, scoring 40 points off 13/120 from the field.  In the post-game interview, Giannis was asked why he didn’t make the switch to guard Butler, but he got annoyed. He instead asked why should he have done that and said that his coach didn’t want him to guard Butler.

So is it really not possible for Giannis to guard Butler?

Can Giannis Antetokounmpo stop Jimmy Butler in Game 2?

Giannis is one of the best defenders in the league, and there is no question about his ability to stop Butler.

Butler is a great player offensively, recording a 122.7 offensive rating in this season. Despite shooting less than 25% from three the whole season, he is great at initiating the offense, driving to the rim, and also shooting off the dribble.

But Giannis’ defensive prowess is second to none. Despite being a seven-footer, he has shown terrific agility in keeping up with smaller and quicker players. At the same time, he has the physique to fend off any big man in the league.

During Game 1, it was a costly decision from him to stick to the coach’s orders and let Butler have his best-ever playoff game. So when they face each other in Game 2, Giannis will have revenge on his mind.

Mike Budenholzer cannot afford to stay rigid and has to let Giannis stay on Butler. Throughout the regular season, 137 players defended at least 550 field goal attempts, and at 36%, Giannis allowed the lowest percentage. With a rating of 97.1, he also finished with the best defensive rating in the league. So doubting his ability on the defensive end is insulting.

If Giannis is asked to guard Butler, and he should be, there is only one way it goes. His nickname may be Jimmy G. Buckets and he will be able to get some important points, but Giannis will be able to have him under control in Game 2.