The Milwaukee Bucks' title defense campaign has been a rocky ride so far. While they haven't been terrible like other teams on their title defense, they certainly haven't been playing up to their potential. A big reason for that is Brook Lopez' extended absence due to a back injury.

Because of that, the Bucks are fielding a defense that isn't in the top 10 for the first time in Mike Budenholzer's tenure. Luckily for the team, Brook Lopez will be returning to the starting lineup soon, as he's finally ready to come back to the game. (via Adrian Wojnarowski)

Giannis Antetokounmpo is the biggest name fans think about when talking about the Bucks' stifling defense. However, watching the team play, it's clear that Lopez is the foundation of Budenholzer's defense. His ability to protect the rim allows Giannis to play sort of like a free safety, using his length to be a terrifying help defender.

While the Bucks have been chugging along nicely without Lopez, they will gladly welcome back their center with open arms. Having someone of Lopez' caliber in the paint allows guys like Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday to be extra aggressive with their perimeter defense. His ability to space the floor also opens up opportunities for Giannis to do his thing in the paint.

With him and George Hill set to come back soon in the lineup, the Bucks are looking more and more dangerous. They could be getting healthy at just the right moment. They could be ramping back into form just in time to defend their title.