There hasn’t been much debate, if any, regarding the Milwaukee Bucks’ four starters ahead of the 2023-24 season. Newly acquired superstar Damian Lillard will be the starting point guard in his debut season, along with veterans Khris Middleton, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Brook Lopez.
The big question right now, though, is who the fifth starter will be in the Bucks‘ star-studded starting five.
Milwaukee Bucks HC Adrian Griffin Hints at Malik Beasley’s Role
It appears that head coach Adrian Griffin already has a good idea as to which player will be taking on the role of being the fifth starter this coming season.
Speaking after Sunday’s preseason win against the Chicago Bulls, Griffin spoke highly of Beasley’s role not only in the contest but also, moving forward.
Griffin said that he thought Beasley was “playing hard” on the defensive end against Chicago and that this could be the factor that makes him win the race for the starting small forward role:
“We talked about this prior to this game, kinda his role going into the season, that he’s gonna have to take the toughest assignment most nights,” Griffin said.
The first-year coach then heaped praise on Beasley’s ability to stretch the floor on the offensive end — something that will be a key element for Milwaukee this coming season:
“With his three-point shooting capabilities, I think he showcased it tonight why he complements our roster,” Griffin said. “It’ll be fun to see him out there spacing the floor when we get Dame and Giannis back, and see how teams play those guys.”
Beasley got the start on Sunday, playing 22 minutes in his Bucks debut. He finished with 13 points on 5-of-10 shooting, to go along with three triples, four assists, and two steals.
Malik Beasley Will Have Competition for Starting Role
Beasley’s path toward being a starter won’t be an easy one, though. He will have to compete with Pat Connaughton, who started 33 games for the Bucks last season. The 6-foot-5 swingman will be entering his sixth year in Milwaukee, and it goes without saying that he has already established himself as an important part of the rotation through the years.
MarJon Beauchamp will also give Beasley a run for his money. The incoming second-year forward has been making a lot of noise this offseason, and he too is expected to play a major role in Griffin’s rotation in 2023-24.
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