Previewing the five most crucial Toronto Raptors’ games of December
Dec. 9- Toronto Raptors vs. Milwaukee Bucks
Key matchup: Kawhi Leonard against Giannis Antetokounmpo
In the two teams’ previous matchup, both of the squads’ superstar wings sat out. This time around, with the lack of a back-to-back set impeding, the Milwaukee Bucks will be full strength.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, fitting squarely in the MVP conversation, has been a handful for many a team this year. Averaging 27.3 points, 12.9 rebounds, and six assists per game through the seasons’ first two months, Antetokounmpo has set the world on fire, nary a jumper to show for it.
Straying from the new age theory of three-point accuracy, Antetokounmpo has built a scoring game around efficient scoring inside, and transition dunks, some of the highlight variety:
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Outside of his scoring, the Bucks have relied on Antetokounmpo to do most of the rebounding duties with big man Brook Lopez settling in as effectively a three-point specialist for the center position.
Likely to take the assignment of guarding Antetokounmpo is Leonard, known for his ability to counter stars as big as LeBron James.
The problem lies in the system the Raptors will be opposed with. Under the watchful eye of newly-minted coach Mike Budenholzer, the Bucks have changed their offensive system completely.
No longer does John Henson and Thon Maker come in to jam the lane. Now, the Bucks rely on the drive and kick ability of Antetokounmpo. When running down the floor, each shooter, including big man Brook Lopez, will go to a certain area of the court, either the corner or top of the arc, and rest for Antetokounmpo to make a move down the lane.
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If the Raptors are able to meet Antetokounmpo at the top of the key, causing his drive to falter, the Bucks offense will become much more isolated, leaving the Raptors a chance to win.
If the Greek Freak is able to make his way down the lane, the Raptors have fewer options to stop the Bucks offensive unit.