Milwaukee Bucks: Key Issues Facing The Bucks’ Core Pieces

John Henson

Can he introduce an element of consistency to his game?

With four years logged in the league, all with the Bucks, it’s clear at this point what type of player John Henson is. One of the best rim protectors and shot-blockers year in and year out, Henson actually led the league in block rate in what might have been considered a down season.

Of course, this only evaluates one side of the floor. Bucks fans have had lengthy offseason “wishlists” for Henson almost every year, which seem to include the same desired elements. At almost 26 years old, Hook is nearing or at his physical prime, which means adding muscle mass to a skinny, 229 pound frame may be out of the question.

Fortunately, the changing culture of NBA offenses means this may not be as detrimental  to the former North Carolina Tar Heel as in years past. On the offensive end, Henson has yet to showcase any semblance of an independent repertoire – although his moniker comes from his affinity for left-handed hook shots in the post, he posted up just 57 times last season to the tone of .72 points per game.

Furthermore, only 5.8% of his shots came from outside of nine feet, making it difficult to pair him with a similarly challenged center like Miles Plumlee or Greg Monroe.

So, if we can’t expect Henson to add any elements to his game, what should his goals be for this season?

In order to see time in a crowded center rotation, Henson must maintain his high-level of defensive prowess, but that should figure to be no issue given his past performance in this respect.

A major factor behind the lack of opportunities for Henson has been his offensive inconsistency. His game log reads erratically; some nights will see him post upwards of 15 points on efficient shooting while on others he may all but disappear from the box score.

A consistently superb Henson would obviously be ideal, but simply avoiding large fluctuations could go a long way towards providing winning opportunities for both Henson and the team.