Eric Nehm, The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks beat writer, joins Dave DuFour to breakdown Damian Lillard's move to the Milwaukee Bucks and his fit with Giannis Antetokounmpo. They discuss the impact of Lillard's trade on the team, concerns about the defense, the potential impact of Malik Beasley, and the sentiments of Bucks fans regarding the departure of Drew Holiday.
The trade for Damian Lillard strengthens the Milwaukee Bucks' offense by adding his scoring ability and playmaking skills to the core of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton.
The departure of Drew Holiday raises concerns about the Bucks' defense, as Lillard may struggle to fill the gap left by Holiday's strong perimeter defense, necessitating the need for other players like Middleton and Antetokounmpo to step up on that end of the court.
Deep dives
The Bucks' aggressive move to acquire Damian Lillard
The podcast discusses how the Milwaukee Bucks made an aggressive move to acquire Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers. The host highlights that this move is consistent with the Bucks' previous high-profile trade for Drew Holiday. While recognizing Holiday's contributions, the host argues that Lillard is a better overall basketball player. By adding Lillard to their existing core of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, the Bucks aim to strengthen their offense and improve their chances of winning a championship. The host emphasizes Lillard's scoring ability, playmaking skills, and his impact on the team's overall spacing. Despite concerns about the defense and the adjustment for both Lillard and the team, the host believes that the trade positions the Bucks as one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference.
The impact on the Bucks' defense
In addition to the offensive benefits, the podcast explores the potential impact of the trade on the Milwaukee Bucks' defense. While acknowledging that Lillard is not known for his defense, the host raises valid concerns about the Bucks' defensive capabilities. The departure of Drew Holiday, who provided strong perimeter defense, leaves a gap that Lillard may struggle to fill. The host questions whether the Bucks will be able to defend well enough to compete for a championship, given the team's recent defensive success. The new defensive system introduced by coach Adrian Griffin is expected to prioritize aggressiveness and the creation of turnovers, which contrasts with the defensive style under Mike Budenholzer. The host examines the defensive abilities of players like Chris Middleton and Giannis Antetokounmpo, highlighting the need for them to step up on that end of the court.
The sentimental value of losing Drew Holiday
The podcast also delves into the sentimental impact of losing Drew Holiday, who played a crucial role in the Bucks' championship run. While acknowledging that it's not about losing specific aspects of Holiday's game that Lillard can't provide, the podcast emphasizes the emotional connection fans have with Holiday due to his involvement in the team's historic championship win. The host describes Holiday as a steady and professional player, noting his contributions and memorable moments that will be forever etched in the team's history. Despite the sentimental attachment, the host assures Bucks fans that the accomplishments Holiday contributed to will always be remembered, and that acquiring Lillard represents the team's commitment to winning and improving.
The Athletic's Milwaukee Bucks beat writer, Eric Nehm, joins Dave DuFour to breakdown Damian Lillard's move to the Milwaukee Bucks from the Portland Trail Blazers in a three-team trade involving the Phoenix Suns, his fit with Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the loss of Jrue Holiday's defense.
