Brook Lopez
Another player that has been a star in the bubble is Brook Lopez. The starting center for the Eastern Conference-leading Milwaukee Bucks, Lopez has been the force that Giannis’ Bucks have needed.
Playing in his 12th season in the NBA, Lopez didn’t get a consistent three-point shot under four years ago.
Now, the 7-foot big man is averaging 1.4 threes per game, down from 2.3 per game a season ago. In the bubble, he’s averaging 2.2 threes on 5.6 attempts which is good for 38.3%. Averaging 20 points and 2.6 rebounds per game, Lopez has been terrific.
The Bucks, in the bubble, have been far from as good as Lopez, winning just two games while losing four. The former All-Star could be brought in for the Warriors’ trade exception, but at $12 million, he’s a steal and would likely command quite the return.
Lopez would be the quintessential player given his scoring prowess and ability to protect the rim. Sadly, he’s also highly valued by the Bucks who gave the 32-year-old a four-year, $32 million deal last offseason.