Milwaukee Bucks: Grades/Reaction For Mirza Teletovic Deal
By Adam McGee
Cons
There are a couple of marks to consider on the negative side of the ledger for Teletovic. First off, and the most obvious of the bunch, is the 30-year-old’s defensive inadequacies.
In many ways, Teletovic’s defense is better than the reputation it has been left with. The former Sun is a hard worker, who applies himself, will show good hustle and in maybe his greatest asset, loves physicality. Just ask LeBron James.
The problems on the defensive end start for Teletovic with his sub-par speed and athleticism. Mirza is a lot of things, but agile isn’t necessarily one of them.
Upon first arriving in the NBA, Teletovic had noted the challenges of adjusting to NBA defense and particularly the pace of the game. With many of those around him moving at higher speeds, Teletovic has to rely on reading the play and being in the right position, something which is near impossible to do play after play.
Teletovic is smart, physical and generally focused, but his physical limitations will provide him with regular challenges on the defensive end of the floor.
Away from defense, Teletovic’s lack of obvious athletic abilities also limit his offensive impact when he steps inside the arc. Physicality is key for the Bosnian when he finds himself in close proximity to the basket, but at times his touch can let him down.
One thing that can’t go unmentioned is Teletovic’s past health concerns. With question marks over whether Chris Bosh will ever play in the NBA again, Mirza Teletovic has had to overcome his own history of blood clots.
It’s a serious matter, one much more serious than your run of the mill NBA injuries, but having returned to play a full season last year, the hope would have to be that Teletovic is past those struggles.
It remains as a concern in the back of the mind, but you’d have to trust that Milwaukee’s medical staff have done their due diligence and given the thumbs up for the deal to go ahead.
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