There’s no denying that the Milwaukee Bucks have the talent and experience to win the championship next year. According to an NBA analysis, though, there’s this one stat that has highlighted the team’s problem ahead of the upcoming campaign.
As the Bucks gear up for the upcoming season, head coach Doc Rivers faces a critical decision regarding the team’s athleticism and overall energy. Last season, the Bucks struggled to keep pace with younger, more dynamic teams, relying heavily on two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The lack of explosive plays from other players highlighted a significant gap in athleticism.
Rivers must consider integrating younger talent, such as Andre Jackson Jr., to inject some much-needed agility into the lineup. Although these younger players may be less experienced, their potential for high-energy performances could provide the boost the team needs. Jackson, for instance, contributed 16 dunks last season, demonstrating his ability to add excitement and explosiveness.
However, the introduction of youth comes with risks, including the potential disruption of team chemistry that veteran players bring, especially in high-pressure situations. The Bucks have recently added experienced players like Delon Wright and Taurean Prince, who enhance the skill set but lack the explosive athleticism needed to compete effectively.
Milwaukee Bucks’ Wild Stat Sheds Light on Team’s Major Problem Ahead of 2024-25 NBA Season
As it stands, the Bucks have covered almost every important aspect of the game. According to Behind the Buck Pass’ Dalton Sell, though, they’re lacking when it comes to athleticism.
“One statistic that captures how unathletic the Milwaukee Bucks were last season was highlighted on the recent episode of the Hoop Collective Podcast with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Tim Bontempts and Tim MacMahon. They dove deep into the numbers and said that only two players on the roster had dunked the ball at least 25 times this past season.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the team, no surprise there, and league in dunks with 251, but the next closest Buck was Brook Lopez at 42, which was tied for 83rd in the entire league. Behind Lopez was Bobby Portis, who totaled 22 dunks, which was tied for the 145th most in the association.
Outside of Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Bucks don’t have a ton of athletes who rely heavily on dunks. Khris Middleton and Damian Lillard are smooth scorers, but they rely on their shooting. Lopez and Portis are both towering giants, so they will get an occasional dunk, but they are also primarily bigs who shoot the long ball. Pat Connaughton used to dunk often, but his athleticism has dipped,” Sell wrote.
It remains to be seen whether Rivers can utilize the team’s younger talent to resolve this problem. As it stands, the Bucks lack the cap space or assets to bring athletic players as it would greatly change the dynamic of the roster.
Ultimately, Rivers may need to prioritize a shift toward a more youthful roster. Embracing this change could revitalize the Bucks’ energy and effectiveness, allowing them to better match up against their younger rivals in the league. Balancing experience with youthful vigor will be crucial for the Bucks’ success in the coming season.
For More Wisconsin Sports:
Follow us on Twitter at @WiSportsHeroics. Also, check out our Merchandise Here! Get 20% off with the code “WSH.” To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest in ALL of Wisconsin sports, click here! Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, Wisconsin Badgers.
