Milwaukee Bucks: Key Issues Facing The Bucks’ Core Pieces

Greg Monroe

Can he dominate opposing benches and command the bench?

For such a controversial and highly-paid player, this goal may seem very simplistic, which underscores the failed nature of the original signing. As I wrote last week, Monroe’s level of fit with the Bucks has degraded to the point where his individual skills may be close to irrelevant.

However, the Bucks have taken steps to provide a better environment for Moose to practice his craft in, even if it means coming off the bench. To Monroe’s credit, he hasn’t showed signs of displeasure with his new role, which may be hard to do just one year removed from signing a max contract.

During the preseason, Monroe has continued to show his prowess as a tireless post scorer, but what may be more important is the hustle and energy that shines through his play. This should be a welcome sign, as the appearance of general apathy was a major complaint regarding Moose’s game last year.

Monroe coming off the bench as a sixth man, as it seems he will, should be a plus for his own prospects and the club as a whole. No longer will the starting lineup contain too many metaphorical mouths to feed, considerably de-cluttering both the ball distribution and spacing.

As a sixth man of sorts, Monroe will be able to demand the ball more than he ever could with the starters, and players like Mirza Teletovic and Jason Terry will give Moose more isolation opportunities than he’s seen in his career.

Expecting Monroe to improve on the defensive end would certainly be ideal, but is unlikely. Six years into his career and at 26 years old, becoming a plus defender would be a radical shift the likes of which is unprecedented.

If Monroe can truly dominate opposing squads’ second units, Bucks fans will likely feel a lot better about his stay with the team as a whole.