Kidd rose from the bench and walked to the sideline.
It was only the pre-season, but the Pelicans were already putting on such a show. He had his pride, too!
He called out to remind his players about their retreat defense speed, then turned to glance at Stevens, who sat calmly on the other side of the court, before turning back and sitting down again.
After all, it was only the pre-season. He could not lose in terms of presence.
The Bucks brought the ball into the frontcourt. Their offensive movement failed to create a good shooting opportunity, and the ball eventually ended up in Hayward's hands.
Hayward was the kind of player with a high basketball IQ. After glancing at Butler, who had made the All-Defensive First Team last season, he did not force a Tough Drive. Instead, he called Monroe over for a pick-and-roll.
Monroe was a traditional center. His Movement speed was somewhat slow, but he was big enough that the screen completely pinned Butler.
Hayward took the opportunity to drive into the paint and challenge Dedmon.
Dedmon was known for his defense. He retreated while guarding, always maintaining proper defensive position.
After leaning into him, Hayward showed off his individual ability with a low Bank Shot Layup.
Bang!
But just then, Davis rotated over on Help Defense again and stuffed Hayward with a vicious Spike Block!
Fans' cheers erupted throughout the arena.
Davis had blocked two shots in a row to start the game!
Over the past few seasons, Davis's Help Defense had grown stronger and stronger. But because he had been paired with Jokic, he often had to provide Help Defense. Though he got plenty of blocks, they had never felt quite this overwhelming.
But this season, with two defensive monsters in Tang Tian and