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Giannis is playing defense like a toddler chasing a ball

It wasn’t long ago that Giannis Antetokounmpo was one of the NBA’s best defenders. He joined Michael Jordan and Hakeem Olajuwon as the third player ever to be named NBA MVP and Defensive Player of the Year in the same…

By Ricky O'Donnell · SB Nation

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 4:56 PM

Key Things to Know

Ricky O'Donnell argues Giannis Antetokounmpo is showing a noticeable defensive decline with the Miami Heat.
A viral clip from Miami's 120-100 loss to Golden State showed Antetokounmpo chasing the ball without clear purpose.
The writer notes Antetokounmpo carries an exhausting 32.8% usage rate as Miami's primary offensive creator.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Ricky O'Donnell of SB Nation argues that Giannis Antetokounmpo is displaying a noticeable defensive decline with the Miami Heat. Following a 120-100 loss to the Golden State Warriors, a viral clip highlighted Antetokounmpo chasing the ball without clear positioning or purpose.

O'Donnell notes that Antetokounmpo, who recently joined Miami in an offseason trade, carries a high 32.8% offensive usage rate that may contribute to fatigue. With the Heat dropping to 3-6, the writer suggests the trade currently appears to be a lose-lose scenario for both Miami and Milwaukee.

Read the full article on SB Nation

Giannis is playing defense like a toddler chasing a ball

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