NBA Coach David Fizdale Explains the Science Behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bucks’ Recent Failure

The Milwaukee Bucks last had a change in their logo in 2015. The new Buck looks angrier and sports an expanded rack of antlers. If one was to set an analogy, one can imagine Giannis Antetokounmpo to be that Buck and those horns representing all the other players on the roster.

However, there is a problem in the real-world setting. Giannis has been facing trouble as his horns are not performing with the required power and precision. In the NBA Playoffs 2020, the Bucks were the clear favorites to reach the NBA Finals. But just as Giannis got injured, they lost their impact and failed against a war-ready Miami Heat. 

What does Giannis Antetokounmpo need to deliver?

David Fizdale, J. B. Bickerstaff, and Ray Paultre discussed the various interesting topics when they touched on this aspect. A very popular basketball coach with an equally diverse portfolio, David noted that the Bucks are relying too heavily on Giannis alone. He expressed, “They let the guy like [Malcolm] Brogdon walk, who was critical to playmaking. You saw when Giannis was not going, the playmaking went down.”

Brogdon’s last season with the Bucks was quite good where he averaged 15.6 pts, 4.5 rebs, and 3.2 assists at 50.5 FG%. But the Bucks traded him to the Pacers in exchange for a future 1st round and two future second-round picks.

David Fizdale further expanded on his point and said:

“I think with Giannis, honestly, even with those deficiencies of shooting, if they would address that issue of having a guy that can come off pick-and-roll, shoot a three, and make a play for him. He [Giannis] is a power forward, stop forgetting that. Karl Malone had [John] Stockton, Timmy [Duncan] had Tony Parker. You can do down the line of point guards have played with great power forwards, they need easy baskets. He has always got the ball in his hands, has to make the play, they need a guy to give him some cheap stuff.”

The Bucks need a restructuring this offseason

As a power forward, the Greek Freak has the responsibility to play as a phenomenal rebounder, which he is. He is an able playmaker who is good at converting open shots. Plus, he serves as a great helping hand to center Brook Lopez. His shooting prowess is also amazing, but the problem is that he can’t do it all alone. He needs help and constant, trustworthy support.

Now, if a point guard as effective as Chris Paul joins the Bucks in the coming offseason, it would be an ideal dual to take the Bucks towards glory. Hence, the fate of Giannis Antetokounmpo‘s involvement with the franchise now depends on the support system they can provide for the 25-year-old star.