Brook Lopez’s incredible number: Nets shot 2/19 with him as the leading defender

Brook Lopez had an incredible performance in the Win by – without Giannis Antetokounmpo – Bucks against the Nets (118-113), finished the game with 24 points, 10 rebounds and 9 blocks, missing a rare triple-double by a block. The thing is, though, that wasn’t even the most noticeable element in his looks.

In accordance with InStat Scout Brook Lopez led the Nets with 20 offensive rebounds. In that possession, the Nets players had 2/19 shots and 1 error, an unimaginable number! Here’s the impressive shot chart of possessions Lopez has defended:

It seems incredible, but the Nets only shot 10.5% on shots with Lopez reaffirming that he’s one of the best rim protectors — and defenders — in the NBA.

According to InStat Scout, Lopez defended himself in the following situations:
Pick and roll where the big man tried a shot: 4 possessions – 2 points
catch and shoot (Stop Shot): 3 possessions – 3 points
cuts (cuts to the basket): 3 possessions – 0 points
catch and drive (Take ball and attack): 3 possession – 0 points
isolation (one on one): 2 possessions – 0 points
crossing (Surprise): 2 possessions – 0 points
Off the screen (coming from a screen): 1 possession – 0 points
Pick and roll where the ball handler shot: 1 possession – 0 points
Offensive rebound: 1 possession – 0 points

The man who ties up the Bucks’ defense

Brook Lopez is one of the Bucks’ most valuable players and the one who holds virtually their entire defense together thanks to his ability to protect the basket. He’s the one who allows the team’s guards to press the ball and Giannis Antetokounmpo to play a freer role as he provides security.

This season, Lopez has 15.2 points (his highest tally since the 2016-17 season when he was with the Nets), 6.6 rebounds (his highest tally since the 2015-16 season) and 2.5 steals in the game Cut (career record) with 38.3% to three (career record) in 30.4 minutes participation. He’s the catalyst for the Bucks and it shows in every game.

Lopez, now 35, looks set to have a second youth in his 14th season in the NBA. If he continues to be as efficient as he has been, nothing but good can happen to the Bucks.