MichiganPacker posted:The pattern is that Giannis is in during the third quarter and part of the 4th, they build a double digit lead and by the time he's back in it's down to 3-5 points and the other team is in a rhythm.
The problem with Middleton's game is that on offense he is a poor man's Carmelo Anthony. When they route it through Middleton, the offense goes stagnant and it gets everyone else out of rhythm. Middleton's also not good enough or athletic enough to beat elite defenders in isolations which leads to turnovers and contested shots. When Giannis is in, even Middleton's occassional isolations look better because the Kawhi Leonard/Al Horford elite defensive players get matched up with Giannis which allows Middleton to attack lesser guys and he's much more effective.
BINGO! Middleton’s limitations have been exposed this season. And the injuries to the Gs exacerbates it because he’s then asked to handle the ball, which is always an adventure. And this is all going to get magnified come playoff time- the Bucks cannot afford Middleton’s mistakes in the playoffs. Great point about him and Melo- it’s very true.
But also don’t forget the shortening of the bench that will cone in the playoffs, as well. Assuming Hill is back soon, he gets the backup PG minutes, and they’ll need to watch Brown/Snell closely, but they should get some minutes too. No Connaughton, or anyone else. Brogdon and Bledsoe get 35-40 minutes every game unless they’re in foul trouble or blowing teams out.
Gasol was brought in to backup Lopez, and Giannis, Middleton, Mirotic round out the rotation. That’s 8-9 deep. If anyone struggles, go back to the starter.