Brook Lopez has been a defensive anchor for the Milwaukee Bucks and a respected NBA veteran for years. However, as the 2025 playoffs unfold, his role has come under scrutiny. Fans and analysts alike are questioning whether Lopez should continue as a starter, or if it’s time for a strategic shift in Milwaukee’s frontcourt.

Early Playoff Performance Raises Concerns

The start of the series against the Indiana Pacers has proven challenging for both the Bucks and Brook Lopez. During the first two games, Lopez’s playing time plummeted compared to the regular season. In Game 2, he logged only 16 minutes, contributing eight points, one rebound, one assist, and four blocks. This is a far cry from his typical workload. According to RotoWire, Lopez averaged over 31 minutes a game during the regular season, but in the playoffs, he’s seen just 18.5 minutes per night.

His scoring has dipped, and perhaps more noticeably, his three-point shooting hasn’t provided the usual floor-spacing advantage. Fans have noticed the veteran’s struggle to keep pace with the younger, quicker Pacers lineup.

Fan Sentiment Favors a Reduced Role

A growing number of Bucks supporters believe Lopez should come off the bench for the rest of the Pacers series. A fan survey conducted by Brew Hoop found broad agreement on the need for change. Even though Lopez generated some defensive stops in Game 3, his limited foot speed and the fast-paced Indiana offense have limited his effectiveness. Many fans believe that keeping his minutes in check, and maximizing them against more favorable matchups, is the best way forward.

Calls for Adjustments from Coaches and Media

Analysts have echoed fans’ concerns, noting that Brook Lopez’s decline in speed and outside shooting is affecting the Bucks’ playoff strategy. In a recent Sports Illustrated piece, it was suggested that head coach Doc Rivers might have to make additional changes to the starting lineup. While Lopez has long been a stable presence for Milwaukee, his age and current form pose challenges when facing the Pacers’ up-tempo attack.

Backup options like Bobby Portis and Jericho Sims have shown promise in the minutes they’ve received. Portis, in particular, has brought energy and scoring off the bench, including better three-point shooting than Lopez in this series.

Looking Ahead: What’s the Best Role for Brook Lopez?

It’s never easy to ask a seasoned veteran to take on a diminished role, especially one as important to the Bucks as Brook Lopez. However, playoff basketball is about matchups and making the right adjustments at the right time. Whether Rivers adapts again or continues to trust his veterans, Lopez’s leadership and experience remain valuable assets—even if his minutes are reduced for the team’s benefit.

As the series continues, all eyes will be on Milwaukee’s rotations. Can Brook Lopez bounce back, or will the Bucks find their best lineups with him coming off the bench? For more in-depth discussion and the latest updates, check out the Brew Hoop fan survey and RotoWire’s reports.

Summary: Brook Lopez’s playoff performance is under the microscope, with fans and analysts making compelling cases for modifying his role. The Bucks will need to strike a balance between loyalty and adaptation if they aim to keep their championship hopes alive.