In just a year, the Milwaukee Bucks have undergone a remarkable transformation, shifting from a defensive powerhouse to an unstoppable offensive unit. However, this evolution seems to have come at the expense of their defensive prowess, reverting to a rudimentary version that struggles with fundamental tasks, such as containing ball-handlers.

The Bucks' defensive performance has sparked criticism from both fans and analysts at the start of the season. Contrasting sharply with their previous season under Mike Budenholzer, where they allowed the fourth-fewest points per 100 possessions and the lowest effective field goal percentage, Milwaukee now finds itself ranked 21st and 17th in these respective categories after the first 17 games, according to Cleaning the Glass.

The concern isn't just about the points conceded but also about the manner in which they are surrendered. With the formidable presence of Brook Lopez and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks boasted an elite rim-protecting duo over the last half decade. Opponents hesitated to challenge the paint, knowing these defensive stalwarts were ready to swat away any attempts. Or, at least, that used to be the case.

While the Bucks still excel at limiting shots at the rim, with opponents only managing around 28 percent of their attempts within four feet of the hoop, there's a noticeable shift in the success rate at close range.

Now, why start a discussion about perimeter defense by focusing on points around the bucket? The reason lies in recognizing that Lopez and Antetokounmpo haven't suddenly lost their elite defensive abilities. To comprehend the issues at the rim, we must first examine how the ball reaches that crucial zone.

This directs our attention to the on-ball defenders. Milwaukee's perimeter defense has been subpar this season, resembling matadors waving capes at ball-handlers only to watch them breeze past. The absence of Jrue Holiday leaves a void that cannot be easily filled. The Bucks now face the challenge of putting together their defensive puzzle with the available pieces.

Malik Beasley finds himself in an unfamiliar role as the designated lockdown defender for the Bucks, a position he's never assumed in his career. While his effort is commendable, the NBA demands more than mere determination; it requires the skill set to effectively fulfill the assigned role.

Beasley's limitation lies in his absence of elite lateral quickness, making it challenging for him to stop players dribbling past him. Adrian Griffin's defensive strategy, urging his players to pressure the ball about 30 feet from the hoop, only accentuates these deficiencies. In the above video, Jordan Poole effortlessly maneuvers past Beasley, highlighting a vulnerability that opponents can exploit.

Griffin's defensive vision draws inspiration from his time with the Toronto Raptors, emphasizing length, athleticism, and defensive activity to disrupt ball-handlers and force turnovers. However, the Bucks differ significantly—they're characterized by an aging roster, lack of speed, and an absence of athleticism in positions not occupied by Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Rather than imposing a defensive scheme that demands qualities the team lacks, particularly the ability to pressure the ball extensively, Griffin should tailor his strategy to the strengths of his personnel.

Adjustments have already been made. The return to the drop defense previously employed under Budenholzer has yielded promising outcomes. Since this change on November 3rd, Milwaukee boasts a 10-3 record with the 13th best defensive rating during this period—an encouraging start.

While this Bucks team may not achieve elite defensive status, strategic tweaks can elevate them to an average level. Griffin and his coaching staff must persist in refining their coverages, ensuring they mitigate player weaknesses, such as struggles in containing ball-handlers, rather than exposing them on an isolated island far from the hoop.